QR Codes
QR codes are now a key tool in event planning, making everything from check-in to engagement a breeze. Discover how to use them wisely to streamline your next event, keep attendees happy, and create memorable experiences.
Remember when QR codes seemed like a tech fad? Well love them or hate them, they’re here to stay! These nifty little squares are great for event planning, from making check-ins smoother to creating more engaging experiences. QR codes can simplify SO many things. So, let's look at how to put them to work at your next event.
Make Check-In a Breeze
Show me someone that likes standing in a queue and I’ll show you a cat that enjoys a bath! Long lines, especially on arrival are not the best welcome. QR codes can completely transform the check-in process into a quick, easy experience:
Pre-Event Check-In: Send a QR code in the confirmation email or event app. Attendees can scan it when they arrive, skipping long registration lines and flowing straight into the action.
On-Site Registration: Spending time handling unexpected walk-ins? No more. Set up a QR code at the venue entrance so last-minute attendees can scan, register, and walk in. Dispense with manual forms and waiting.
Less waiting means happier attendees and so much less stress for your team
Ditch the Paper Programmes - Go Digital
Flimsy or bulky programmes can be a pain to carry around. QR codes reduce the need for printed schedules, maps, and materials. Everything attendees need is right on their phones.
Event Schedules & Maps: QR codes can be placed around the venue or on lanyards. A quick scan gives your attendees up-to-date schedules and a digital map of the venue, saving you printing costs.
Speaker Bios & Session Info: Instead of handing out speaker lists, position QR codes outside session rooms. It's more interactive and attendees can instantly learn about topics and presenters that they are interested in. This can make it far more personalised.
Digital Downloads: Whether it’s presentations, brochures, or sponsor material, QR codes offer an easy way for attendees to grab resources without lugging around extra paperwork.
Not only is it more convenient, but it’s also eco-friendly - a win-win!
Turn Up the Engagement with QR Codes
If you are looking to make your event more interactive - QR codes can help boost attendee engagement in fun and easy ways:
Live Polls & Q&A: Set up QR codes that link to live polls or session Q&As. No need for extra tech or apps—attendees just scan and get involved.
Social Media Sharing: Encourage attendees to share their event experience by scanning a QR code that links directly to your event’s social media pages or hashtags.
Scavenger Hunts & Games: These can make things more exciting, you can use QR codes in a scavenger hunt, where attendees scan codes to unlock clues or win prizes. It’s a simple way to add some fun to the day.
When attendees feel involved, they’re more likely to stick around and remember the experience.
Boost Your Event Promotions
QR codes aren’t just for logistics - they can help ramp up your promotions too. Whether it’s offering exclusive deals or getting sponsors more attention, QR codes can make it easy:
Discounts & Giveaways: Place QR codes around the venue, at booths, or on signage, and let attendees scan to unlock discounts or enter competitions.
Sponsor Promotions: Give sponsors a unique way to engage with attendees by using QR codes that lead to product demos, special offers, or exclusive content.
QR codes add a fun, interactive element to your promotions, making them more likely to be used.
Keep QR Code Use Safe and Secure
As handy as QR codes are, it’s important to keep them as secure as possible:
Verify Codes: Only use trusted sources and make sure your attendees know which QR codes are official. This reduces the risk of malicious codes. There has been a lot of bad press about fake QR codes.
Protect Private Links: If you’re sharing exclusive content, ensure the QR code links are secure, requiring credentials or passwords for access.
Keeping things secure helps ensure a smooth event and builds trust with your attendees.
Final Thoughts: QR Codes Are Here to Stay
Whether you’re running a corporate event, a festival, or a small workshop, QR codes are a key tool to have in your planning toolkit. From faster check-ins to better attendee engagement, they’re a simple way to make your events more efficient and interactive. So, why not give them a try? Consider integrating QR codes into your upcoming events and see what impact they can create.
