A GUIDE TO QR CODES

An introduction to using QR codes in the B&B industry

WHAT ARE THEY? HOW DO YOU USE THEM?

QR codes, or ‘Quick Response’ codes, are easily recognised as the black and white pixelated squares that are starting to pop up everywhere we look.

Simply put, these are just another type of barcode with a bit of a twist. Originally designed in Japan in 1994 for the automotive industry, these unassuming pixelated squares are now being used for almost anything.

Nowadays, most smartphones have QR readers built into the camera, but if not, all you have to do is download a QR reading app.

Once you open up your camera and point it at the unique block of pixelated squares, your phone quickly scans the QR code and within seconds you are ‘directed’ to a website, booking form, social media account, movie trailer, or whatever it is that’s assigned to that code. It could be anything!

In today’s technological society, QR codes are saving a lot of both time and effort. Surprisingly, they could even be handy in the hospitality industry.

You can easily create your very own QR codes online. Follow the instructions to input your relevant information such as website URLs and social media info and you’ll soon have your very own QR code for customers to scan.

Try scanning this QR code!

GENERATE YOUR OWN QR CODE

• qr-code-generator.com

• qrcode-monkey.com

• qrcode.kaywa.com

10 WAYS TO USE QR CODES IN YOUR B&B

1. Booking - Use unique QR codes to instantly direct customers to your booking page, where they can easily check availability and make bookings.

2. Checking in - Attach QR codes to booking confirmation emails, allowing for quick and easy checkins. Scan the guest’s QR code and all the relevant information for that booking will appear.

3. Rules and regulations - You’ll have made quite a few changes due to COVID-19. QR codes will allow customers to access the new rules and regulations they must follow during their stay to keep everyone safe.

4. Appliances - Don’t leave paper manuals lying around your property; use QR codes! People will scan for instructions and work out how to use the appliance.

5. Connecting online/offline media - Putting QR codes onto printed adverts allows people to connect with your digital presence. It will provide access to your social media accounts, website, contact info and bookings site.

6. Menus - QR codes can be used to access online menus and payments, limiting face-to-face contact during the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ll receive food orders straight through to the kitchen as well as direct payments if the guest hasn’t paid beforehand.

7. Comments and reviews - Guests wishing to leave comments and reviews can scan QR codes to quickly access the correct platform to do so.

8. Payments - QR codes provide guests with the chance to pay online. If your card reader stops working, or they don’t have their card on them, access to a QR code allows access to quick, easy payments online.

9. Real time facilities information - If you have extra facilities (e.g. a pool, restaurant or otherwise), unique QR codes can provide real time information. Guests can see how busy your facilities are, which is particularly helpful concerning social distancing measures.

10. Forgotten items - Maybe your guests forgot to pack a toothbrush, or they want extra towels? QR codes in their rooms can direct them to a form, where they can make requests for certain items.