We thought it had disappeared! With the current epidemic, certain habits have changed and the QR code has been booming in recent months!
Social distancing and mask-wearing are part of the new health protocol in place since the beginning of the 2020 health crisis. Amid all these new operating modes, we can see the return of QR codes in tourism.
Why Had We Forgotten About It?
The QR code experienced strong growth at its inception.
Indeed, this black-and-white pictogram invaded our daily lives at lightning speed! We saw it everywhere! In advertisements, on shop fronts, in museums, restaurants, on the uniforms of employees at certain fast-food chains, and even on shoes and tea bags.
In short, QR codes were everywhere, and gradually, the overuse became apparent…
Companies convinced they were being trendy wanted to follow this new trend.
However, from the users’ perspective, the concept was appealing but nothing more. “Scanning a QR code was still quite complicated for them! Indeed, you had to download an application” and mobile connections were slow with often irrelevant links.
QR code usage declined in the early 2000s.
Its Grand Return During the COVID-19 Health Crisis!
During this health crisis period, new protocols and barrier measures were put in place. The new rules recommend touching as few surfaces as possible to limit the spread of the virus.
The QR code seems to be the best alternative to paper communication! People with a smartphone can access content directly on their phone without having to handle a paper medium — they simply scan a QR code! It is the most practical way to allow guests to access data contactlessly! It is even found in our digital travel attestations!
Today’s smartphones all easily scan QR codes, as manufacturers like Apple and Samsung have added the ability to read them directly from the phone’s camera without the need to download a specific application.
The Advantages of QR Codes for Hotels and Restaurants
It was the small revolutionary tool that greatly helped restaurants and cafes during their reopening after the first lockdown. Many of them replaced their menus and cards with QR code stickers to scan, placed on tables.
For hotels, it’s the same. To limit contamination risks associated with paper communication, some opt for an entirely digital room directory and QR codes placed in rooms and high-traffic areas to access the establishment’s various services.
Some Examples of Creative QR Codes
QR codes can be used for many things and share all types of content! The possibilities are endless! Be original and creative!
Here are some examples of usage:
Making a Phone Call
Here, the user will land on a contact page and can directly call the indicated number.
Social Media Sharing
You can absolutely use a QR code to encourage users to share information or an article on their social media.
