Why You Should Avoid Using QR Codes on Websites and Digital Flyers
QR codes are often misused — especially on websites, digital media, emails, and social media posts. When you're already on a computer, phone, or tablet, QR codes don't really make sense.
HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE USING QR CODES:
The purpose of a QR code is to bridge the gap between offline and online experiences. For example, when you see a QR code on a flyer at a coffee shop, a mailer, menu, TV commercial, or presentation, you can quickly grab your phone and scan it, then and be instantly directed to a specific webpage. It’s a seamless way to connect the physical world to the digital.
But if someone is already on your website, reading your email newsletter, browsing a Facebook event, scrolling through social media, or in a text chain — they’re already using a digital device, so there’s no need for a QR code. They’re online and viewing the content directly. They can just click or type-in the link themselves.
And let’s be real: how is someone supposed to scan a QR code when they’re already using the device that would scan it?
Adding QR codes to digital flyers, emails, social posts, or web pages just creates unnecessary visual clutter and confusion.
Instead, create a call-to-action (button or link) that’s directs them to the digital link. Encourage people to click: RSVP HERE, BOOK NOW, PURCHASE TICKETS, etc. No distractions. No QR codes needed.
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TO SUM UP: QR codes are great for offline-to-online connections, but they don’t belong on digital pages or graphics. Physical/print media like flyers, menus, handouts, or on screen mediums like TV commercials, presentations — that’s where QR codes make the most sense. So before you create any marketing graphics, social media posts, blogs, or email newsletters, skip the QR code. Instead, just use a clickable link on the digital page (or ’link in bio’ it). It’s a much smoother, more seamless experience.
Keep it simple. Your audience will thank you for it.
