Understand the decision

A QR code should be an option, not the only way to reach essential information. Some visitors may not want to scan, may have a camera problem or may find the physical placement difficult to use. Provide a short readable address and a clear description of what it opens. If staff can assist, explain the alternative without requiring the person to disclose why scanning is inconvenient. The goal is equivalent access to the information, not identical interaction.

A practical workflow

Test the fallback separately. A printed address is not useful if it is too small to read, difficult to type or redirects to a different offer. On a digital page, make the destination a normal clickable link as well as an image. Check that people can complete the intended next step without having to return to the QR code. Keep both routes aligned when content changes, and include the alternative in the same approval process as the visual design.

Imagine this

Hypothetical example

An event stand offers a QR code, a readable website address and a staff-assisted introduction. A visitor with a damaged phone camera types the address and reaches the same resources. The team has tested both routes, so the alternative is a real service rather than a decorative line.

Make it practical.

Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.

References & further reading

Further reading: FTC: Scammers hide harmful links in QR codes ↗

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