Posted by

Barry Siskind

Community Manager

 

Producing events that are truly green requires the efforts of organizers, facilities and exhibitors. I have long believed that sustainability amongst our exhibitors falls on the organizers’ shoulders.

The cost has been a major issue in the reluctance to adopt greener policies, and yet there are many initiatives that can have a great impact with little additional cost.  One is a broader use of Quick Response (QR) codes.

Quick Response or QR codes are that weird looking box found in the lower right hand corner of a product label. With a Smartphone or tablet, the user can have instant access to company or product information

QR codes are the way to go for the exhibitor looking to cut costs while still  ensuring their material is read as the use of codes reduces the amount of paper given out at a trade fair.  And the good news to exhibitors both large and small is that any business can easily generate a unique QR codes through the use of a QR generator. Here’s how:

Creating the code is generally free. It begins with an internet search for a generator such as Kaywa.com, QRstuff.com or 2d-code.co.uk or simply Google QR generator.  Once you have found a generator, customizing a QR code is a relatively simple task. Using the tool, your exhibitors can create the QR code that works for them. Some generators will allow them to customize the QR code with colour and format. The exhibitor then places their QR code on specific products, informational graphics, literature and business card.  The more places the better.

Then, when they are engaged in a conversation with a visitor, rather than offering a brochure the exhibitor can suggest the prosepct scan your QR code onto their electronic device.

As an organizer, you can suggest your exhibitors include information in their pre-fair invitations, letting their prospects know what they will be offering and that the information will be available through QR codes. They can also provide the URL’s for the apps that they can download. Some of the more popular reader apps are Red Laser, Barcode scanner and i-inigma. If they arrive at the stand without the appropriate app then the exhibit staff can help the visitor find the right download for their device in a matter of seconds.

For the exhibitor looking to add value to their exhibition investment, and the organizer wishing to decrease the events carbon footprint, QR technology and the benefit of having an increased exposure to information, at very little cost, leaves the decision to take the plunge a no-brainer.