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.

Many businesses or organisations have field based operations that need managing in real time. NFC technology gives these businesses leading edge management capability.

NFC can be used in a diverse array of industries with mobile staff, mobile assets, or multiple sites and locations. Because NFC technology uses readily available NFC enabled mobile phones and inexpensive tags, it can be applied anywhere, and by any type of field personnel.

The key benefits of NFC technology for businesses with a field based operation include:

1. NFC is Easy to Use

Using NFC technology is so simple, it's accessible to just about anyone.

All that's needed to run NFC operations in the field are RFID tags which can be situated in key locations, and NFC-enabled mobile phones.

For field operations staff, using Over-C NFC technology is simplicity itself. Just tough a tag with a phone, and that's it. An automated NFC management system then does the rest, recording the time and location of staff, and sending them any special information or data they may need on their NFC enabled mobile phone.

2. NFC Improves Communication

NFC is an extremely effective way of improving two way communications between managers and their staff in the field.

Whenever a field operative touches an NFC tag with their mobile phone the operational management team receive an instant and verifiable confirmation of the location of field staff. Field staff can benefit from automated reporting, which saves time and improves accuracy.

3. NFC Enables Real Time Management

NFC technology lets businesses operate and respond in real time.

When an NFC tag is touched by a mobile phone, notification is in seconds, so operations managers always know exactly where their field personnel are, and what they are doing.

NFC allows businesses to streamline the way people work at, and report from, remote locations. It also allows field based personnel to focus on what they do best, whilst managers benefit from greater visibility in field operations.

4. NFC Improves Customer Service

NFC technology actively helps businesses to deliver enhanced customer service.

Data reporting by field operations staff becomes faster, more efficient and more accurate.

Field operations managers can use this real time data to generate customer reports and measure results faster than ever before - and faster than their competitors.

In fact, using NFC technology in a business can give it a commercial edge to help it gain and retain high value clients.