When trying something that you have never done before it’s a great idea to check out what kinds of mistakes others have made so that you can avoid theme. After a bit of research I have come across these 8 mistakes.
Mistake 1: Not Testing the Code
Make sure it works before you put it out there. It sounds like a no brainer but if Time magazine can make mistakes then anyone can. In this ad released last year only 2 of the 6 codes actually work.
Mistake 2: Do not invert the QR code design.
The TIME example also falls into this category. Inverting the code changes it and makes it unreadable to the scanner.
Mistake 3: Not providing enough Incentive
People need to know that there is something in it for them if they scan the code. For example this add by the US marines only offers wallpaper and a video. This is not tempting enough for people to make the effort and scan the code.
Mistake 4: Not linking QR code to mobile site or one having valuable content
Although some people have tablets that allow them to scan QR codes, the majority of people who do scan QR code do so with their smart phones. It is vital that the link you choose for your QR code takes people to a mobile friendly site. If people become frustrated while trying to navigate your site they are likely to associate your brand with a negative mindset.
Content should not be an after thought of this marketing plan. When people scan your QR code they are seeking some type of additional benefits, one that is not available to those who don’t make the effort. Therefore think about what you want to offer before you start.
Mistake 5: Don’t assume everyone knows
QR codes are still relatively new in the marketing world, therefore not everyone knows how to use them. Show people that you care by guiding them through the process. Don’t forget to include a regular URL for the people interested in your message but don’t have the capability of scanning the codes.
Mistake 6: Location, location, location
Make sure that your followers are able to see and scan your QR code. Some things to avoid in this area include:
Don’t put it too low to the ground where people will have to crouch to scan.
If the code is up high make sure it’s big enough to be read at a distance.
Make sure not to print the QR code too small… the smaller the code the harder it is to read.
Printing on a reflective surface make the QR code unreadable therefore make sure to choose a background that is matt or low gloss.
Mistake 7: Using long URLs
The longer the URL the more pixilated the QR code. This will make the code harder to read on some devices also for those who don’t have a scanner a short URL is much easier to type and or remember than a longer one.
Mistake 8: Putting your QR code where there is no Internet access
The way the QR codes work is that they retrieve information from the web, if there is no Internet access it simply wont work.