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, 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 how is someone supposed to scan a QR code when they’re liking using the device/their phone 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 directs them to the digital link. Encourage people to click: RSVP HERE, BOOK NOW, PURCHASE TICKETS, etc. No distractions. No QR codes needed.
Thank you for coming to my TED talk :)
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.
