This presentation gives a brief history on QR Codes and describes how event professionals can effectively use QR Codes at their events to enhance the attendee experience. This presentation takes excerpts from a the blog post "Why QR Codes Are Just Plain Dumb" which can be found at http://bit.ly/w1rDsV

1. Marvin McTaw
http://sched.org
marvin@sched.org

2.  Quick Response (“QR”)
codes are a type of
barcode
 Originated in the auto
industry
 The information encoded
can be made up of any
kind of data
◦ Website
◦ Phone Number
◦ SMS Text Message
◦ Text
 Requires QR Code reader
◦ Free and paid apps
available
Ex: QR Code for http://sched.org

3.  QR codes are being increasingly used at
events for a number of things
 Typically used to
◦ Provide information about the event
◦ Registration information
◦ Sessions in rooms
◦ Additional information in program guides

4.  Most people do not have smart phones
◦ 60% of mobile phone users have feature phones,
only 40% have smart phones
 Increased complexity can mean reduced
adoption
◦ QR Codes require a QR code reader app
◦ Most people don’t download QR code readers
 Scanning QR codes can be
weird/uncomfortable

5.  Include a URL
◦ It’s usually easier and faster to type in a short URL
like a bit.ly link
 Provide value, not just a link
◦ Special/secret sessions, information transfer,
discounts/coupons
 Place in a convenient location
◦ Test placement in size in programs and throughout
the venue

6.  QR Codes will likely continue to grow in
popularity
◦ This will be aided by the growth in smart phones
 One day, we hope smart phone operating
systems will build QR Code readers into the
standard camera software
◦ This will make reading QR codes easier

7.  Why QR Codes Are Just Plain Dumb
◦ http://bit.ly/w1rDsV
 Using QR Codes To Enhance Your Events
◦ http://bit.ly/sHg68n
 How To Use QR Codes In Event Marketing
◦ http://on.mash.to/rKDkEZ
 QR Code Event Case Studies
◦ http://bit.ly/vloiKe
 Putting QR Codes To Good Use At Events
◦ http://bit.ly/uciiDX

8. marvin@sched.org
http://sched.org
http://news.sched.org
http://twitter.com/mmctaw