Mike Barzacchini

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Have You Checked Your QR Codes Recently?

Mike Barzacchini

Emma reminds you to check your QR codes (and your links, too).

Since they’ve made a resurgence, QR codes have helped make shopping, navigation, ordering dinner, and finding showtimes much easier. But easier for whom?

When they work properly QR codes provide your customers with a quick way to access information about your business, product, or service. But generating your QR code is only the beginning.

I recently stood outside the locked doors of a retail store on a cold day when windchills hovered around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. A prominent QR code displayed on the window instructed me to “scan for store hours.” I did and received a “page not found.” message. All of a sudden, the wind blew a little harder and the walk back to my car was a little colder.

How does this happen? Some QR codes do expire. But more likely, a change was made to the company’s website and the QR code wasn’t updated to reflect the new link. I figured this out when, back in the warmth of my car, I clicked on “store hours” on the retailer’s website and it directed me to a product page with no store information.

The lesson? Check your QR codes regularly. And while you’re at it, check your links and the basic information on your website (hours, directions, contact information). Make doing business with your company friction-free for your customers. There are dozens of reasons for them to buy somewhere else, don’t give them another one.