QR Codes at Events: Far More Than Just Ticketing
QR codes at events are no longer limited to scanning tickets. From the invitation through to post-event feedback, there are numerous applications that make the process more professional and more enjoyable for attendees.
Overview of the Most Important Use Cases
| Phase | Application | QR Code Points To |
|---|---|---|
| Before event | Invitation / registration | Registration form |
| Before event | Program preview | Event website |
| At event | Check-in | Ticket verification system |
| At event | Current program | Live program page |
| At event | Networking | Digital business card / LinkedIn |
| At event | Materials | Download page |
| After event | Feedback | Feedback form |
| After event | Photos | Gallery link |
| After event | Next event | Registration for follow-up event |
Invitations and Registrations
Digital Invitations with QR Code
A QR code on a printed invitation card or poster leads directly to registration. Instead of having to type out a link, the guest scans and is immediately on the form.
Practical tip: Create a dynamic QR code with QR Code Manager. If the registration URL changes or the event is rescheduled, you simply update the destination URL – all already-distributed invitations are automatically current.
Communicating Last-Minute Program Changes
Events change until the last moment: speakers cancel, times shift, rooms change. A dynamic QR code on the printed program always displays the current online version.
At the Event: Program and Navigation
Live Program via QR Code
At multi-day events or conferences with parallel tracks, a printed program quickly becomes outdated. A QR code on the name badge or wristband leads to the current digital version of the program.
Floor Plan and Navigation
QR code at the entrance or on directional signage → digital floor plan opens on the smartphone. Particularly useful at large venues or trade fairs with multiple halls.
Materials Download
Presentations, PDFs, documents – instead of distributing USB drives or collecting emails, place QR codes at each lectern:
"Download slides →" – every attendee scans themselves.
Networking QR Codes
The Event Business Card Problem
Paper cards get lost. Names are forgotten. A QR code on the name badge or a personal display at the table solves this.
Scan → direct connection to LinkedIn, digital vCard or link-in-bio page.
QR Code for Exhibitor Booths at Trade Fairs
Exhibitor booth with QR code: visitors scan and immediately get all information about the company, download materials, or can sign up directly for a follow-up meeting.
Post-Event Feedback
Feedback QR Code
Directly after the event or on the way out: a QR code on the last slide, on displays at the exit or on the name badge leads to the feedback form.
Tip: Keep the form short (3–5 questions max.) and mobile-friendly. Long forms don't get completed on smartphones.
"Did you enjoy it? Rate us →"
Events on Google Business Profile, Eventbrite or Facebook can receive reviews. A QR code leading directly to the review form significantly increases the number of reviews.
Planning Events with QR Code Manager
QR Code Manager offers everything you need for a professional event setup:
- Manage multiple codes at once: Invitation, program, feedback, materials – all in one dashboard
- Change URLs at any time: Program change? Feedback link needs fixing? No reprinting needed
- Scan analytics: See how many guests accessed the program, downloaded materials or gave feedback
- Code design: Brand colors and logo for a professional appearance
Frequently Asked Questions
How many QR codes do I need for a mid-sized event? Typical for a conference with 100–500 people: 4–8 codes (registration, program, multiple presentation downloads, feedback, networking, review).
What if guests don't have mobile internet access? At venues with poor signal, it's advisable to also provide key information in printed form and point guests to Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi QR code at the entrance).
Can I use QR codes for virtual events? Yes – QR codes on digital materials (PDF invitations, email signatures, web banners) lead directly to the Zoom/Teams link or registration.
Further reading: Create QR Code Invitations · QR Codes at Trade Fairs – More Leads · QR Codes in Retail