Marketing Fails: 5 Examples of Technology That Did More Harm Than Good

Marketing always sounds easier in theory than it is in practice. Even with a solid concept, outlining the execution often proves to be as difficult as coming up an idea to begin with.

With the rise of current technologies such as QR codes, #hashtagging, and branded video content, there is plenty of room for error even when being handled by the most skilled of marketers. This infographic by the folks at Lattice highlights five big marketing fails in recent memory, covering the improper use of QR codes, #hashtags, videos, email marketing and the marketing automation.

The infographic cites a particularly ill-received Volkswagen campaign, where a dealership in Illinois erected a billboard with a QR code along the highway that said, "Scan this for the best Passat deal of your life."

What was thought to be innovative quickly received negative media backlash for its subsequent promotion of unsafe driving. Also, according to the graphic, the campaign apparently netted the dealership no direct sales.

Here's a look at 4 other marketing initiatives that didn't end so well:

via Lattice