Rapidity and convenience have become part of the culture of our society, and both consumers and businesses are looking for them at all times. For this very reason, NFC technology is gaining prominence as a key tool for improving customer experience, streamlining processes and even opening up new business opportunities.

Pero But before we get into the technical details, let’s ask ourselves two fundamental questions: NFC, what is it exactly? and why should you pay attention to it if you have a business?

What is NFC: a simple explanation

NFC stands for Near Field Communication. It is a wireless data transmission technology that allows the exchange of information between two devices that are very close to each other, usually less than 10 centimeters.

In other words, NFC is what makes it possible, for example, to pay with a cell phone or card without having to insert it into the dataphone. But this is just the tip of the iceberg: its potential goes far beyond contactless payments.

What is NFC technology and how does it work

NFC technology is powered by a chip that emits radio frequency signals. When this chip enters the range of another compatible device, a secure connection is created to exchange information. The interesting thing about this technology is that it does not require an internet connection to work.

What is NFC on your cell phone and how it can help you

Nowadays, most smartphones already come with an integrated NFC chip. That means that your cell phone can act as a reader and sender of information. And this is where the possibilities for businesses multiply:

Mobile payments: Google Pay, Apple Pay or Samsung Pay use NFC to make payments quickly and securely.
Loyalty cards: customers can scan an NFC tag to register their visit or collect points.
Offers and discounts: you can place NFC tags on products or storefronts to allow users to access special promotions from their cell phones.
Access to product information: by simply bringing their cell phone close to an NFC tag, customers can view technical details, videos, instructions or even reviews.

What is an NFC tag and why can it be useful

An NFC tag is a small device (it can be in the form of a sticker, card or keychain) that contains a chip programmed with certain information. When someone brings their cell phone close to it, an action is executed: opening a web page, connecting to a WiFi network, displaying a location on a map, etc.

These tags are cheap, easy to use and do not need a battery. You can place them on products, tables, business cards or even at the entrance of your business.

Some real examples:

Restaurants that allow you to see the menu and place your order from the table by simply bringing your cell phone close to the table.
Clothing stores that link to a video showing how to match a garment.
Gyms where users can access their personalized routine with an NFC wristband.

How to implement NFC technology in your business

Moving from theory to practice is easier than it seems. Here is a small guide to help you know where to start.

Step 1: Define the objective

What do you want to achieve with this technology? Improve customer experience? Streamline processes? Increase sales? Depending on the objective, the implementation will be different.

You may be interested → Use Grunt to automate processes

Step 2: Choose the type of use

You can opt for:

Physical NFC tags, to share content or trigger actions.
Mobile NFC devices, such as POS for payments.
NFC cards or bracelets, ideal for events, gyms or access to restricted areas.

Step 3: Program your tags or devices

Nowadays there are free apps that allow you to program an NFC tag from your own cell phone. You can configure the desired action (open a website, send a message, dial a phone…) in a very intuitive way.

Step 4: Measure and adjust

As with any digital tool, the important thing is not only to implement it, but to know if it is working. Make sure you measure how many times a tag is scanned, if that generates more sales or improves customer satisfaction.

Advantages of implementing NFC in your business

Rapidity: interaction time is minimal.
Simplicity: the customer only needs to bring the cell phone close.
Security: NFC payments are highly secure and encypted.
Ecological: you can dispense with printed materials such as menus or catalogs.
Innovation: projecting a modern and digital image.

According to the Juniper Research study, the number of NFC payments is expeccted to exceed 49 billion global transactions by 2025, demonstrating the growth and consolidation of this technology.

What can Doowebs do for you?

At Dowebs, apart from being a web design agency, we are specialist in programming and development customized digital solutions for businesses that want to take a leap into the future. If you are interested in implementing NFC in your store, restaurant, company or event, we can help you with:

Designing the digital experience that the customer will live with your brand.
Integrating NFC tags in your digital marketing campaigns.
Connecting this technology, it’s about making it work for you and your customer.

Because it’s not just about using the technologu, it’s about making it work for you and your customer.

Are you ready to take the plunge?

As you can see, NFC technology is not just for big companies, nor does it require a multi-million dollar investment. It’s affordable, practical and, above all, it can make a difference in how you connect with your customers.

Understanding what NFC technology is, or even what an NFC tag is, is the first step in harnessing its potential. From improving the user experience to facilitating payments or sharing content in an original way, the possibilities are at your fingertips (or your mobile, rather).

See also → Fundamental eCommerce tools

Are you ready to implement NFC in your business?
In Doowebs, we accompany you throughout the process. Contact us and discover how a small action can generate a huge impact.

If you found this article useful, do not hesitate to share it. And if you have any questions or want to talk about a solution adapted to your business, we are here to help you.