Near Field Communications, or NFC, is a new technology with unlimited applications. NFC uses RFID technology built in to the latest generation of mobile phones to scan or swipe small RFID tags, which can be placed just about anywhere. Tags can be programmed to trigger different actions when they are swiped by phones used by field sales and service staff.

There are many different industry sectors which are already benefiting from the use of low cost NFC technology based solutions:

NFC Solutions for Venue Management

NFC technology can improve safety at venues, events and exhibitions. Venues such as stadiums and exhibition halls are highly complex and sophisticated structures that require stringent safety checks. Near Field Communication solutions can provide proof in real-time that such safety checks have been carried out.

All venues need to ensure that exit doors and their fastenings are operating satisfactorily and are free from chains and padlocks prior to public access. Any member of staff with an NFC mobile phone can confirm task completion by simply touching an NFC tag at each location.

NFC Technology for Rail Transport

NFC can help manage safety and security activities at train stations. If even a small percentage of passengers travel without paying, then substantial sums of money would be lost to the rail network. A simple solution is to ensure the guard on the train passes through each carriage on every journey. By placing an NFC tag at each end of the train, that the guard touches with his mobile phone, it's possible to monitor online the number of times tickets have been checked in real-time.

Most train operating companies are also responsible for station security. This requires station staff to carry out regular security checks of the premises. NFC systems provide full visibility of such patrols and activate alarms when a non compliance issue occurs.

NFC Solutions for Field Services

NFC enables real-time information exchange between businesses and their field service personnel. For example maintenance and support service companies can upgrade their communication processes and streamline their procedures via a simple NFC mobile phone. NFC technology provides transparency across the business process by delivering digital proof of service tasks completed: where, by whom, and at what time.

The customers of maintenance and service companies can see what has actually been done and check it against the service agreement. By simplifying task communication, field operations become more transparent and desired results are delivered.

NFC Solutions for the Construction Industry

NFC technology can be used to reduce operating risks on construction sites. Safety in the workplace is critical to the success of running a construction company, no matter what size it is. Who`s on-site, have they been inducted, where are they right now? All questions that NFC technology can answer in a fraction of a second.

It is better to deal with health and safety issues on-site for all contractors from a single data point, which can then be accessed from any authorised user from anywhere. NFC has a place in commercial construction because it provides the industry with the potential to improve construction productivity, quality, safety, and economy, cutting labour and material costs and enhancing project schedules.

NFC Solutions for Field Marketing Agencies

Field marketing agencies have numerous operatives in the field at any one time. Often these teams consist of part time or contract staff, so effective team management is essential. NFC helps field marketing agencies place their staff precisely, and so manage their workload more efficiently.

NFC tags can be placed at independent retailer's sites, or even on individual merchandising display units or shelf displays. When a field marketing operative visits the site or merchandising unit, not only are their movements tracked - the latest reports, merchandising instructions or sales pitches can be sent straight to their mobile phone.

Two way data change is instantaneous, so field marketing agencies can provide unparalleled standards of reporting to their FMCG clients, down to store or display level.