NFC tags are quickly gaining popularity in the construction and real estate industries for their ability to improve on-site information and data capture.
These tags use near field communication (NFC) technology, a communication technology which allows the transfer of information between two chips, derived from RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). In simple terms, when you bring your mobile device near an NFC tag, information stored on the tag is easily accessible right on your device. PlanRadar integrates with this technology, connecting to your Tickets in the application.
NFC Tag Benefits in Construction & Real Estate Projects
NFC tags provide several solutions that are particularly important on construction and real estate project sites.
Ultra-Precise Locating – NFC tags can be placed at exact points around a project site to track issues that need to be location-specific.
Build for the field – NFC tags can be extremely durable, able to withstand water, heat and extreme conditions, making them a robust solution for harsh construction worksites.
Internet connection not required – NFC tags use radio frequencies, meaning Wi-Fi or network connectivity is not required. This provides a useful solution in remote sites or underground projects such as foundation or tunnel work. Combined with PlanRadar’s ability to work offline, NFC tags simplify the challenges of working in unconnected areas.
Security – This technology is extremely secure – it’s likely the same technology you’re using when you make a contactless payment at your favorite coffee shop.
One technology, many solutions
The power of near field communication technology, combined with the flexibility of the PlanRadar’s application, make NFC tags a solution for a variety of industries and projects, helping to save time and reduce errors on-site.
Construction Sites – The use cases on constructions sites are endless, from placing tags at key points around the site to share critical information, to tracing tools and equipment to ensure they have been properly maintained.
Modular Builds – NFC tags are useful on modular build projects, tracking materials across the construction process. As materials are moved and assembled with NFC tags, PlanRadar Tickets can be updated from pre-delivery, delivered to the project site, installed and reviewed for quality. With PlanRadar’s reporting and statistic features, it’s easy to stay up-to-date on the status of the project – even when not at the project site.
Facility Management – NFC technology can streamline regular maintenance projects by placing tags in areas that required ongoing maintenance. As teams move throughout the facility, Tickets with all needed information on regular maintenance are pulled up, ready to be reviewed and updated. Key documents and warranty information can be stored via the Ticket, removing the need for excessive paper documentation.
Fire Stopping – Placing a tag on fire stopping elements makes it easy for ongoing checks to ensure everything is in order. Simple align the tag to a Ticket, and teams can easily update the status during ongoing checks.
Infrastructure Projects – The durability, offline functionality and precise location make NFC tags an easy choice for infrastructure projects.
Getting Started
Want to start using NFC tags to streamline your projects? Here are a few simple steps:
- First determine the NFC tags that are right for your project. There are numerous options on the market, each that vary with different qualities and price. For maintenance projects you may opt for a tag meant for indoor, air-conditioned use, where an infrastructure project many require tags that are more robust for outdoor conditions. You can also select tags that blend with surroundings or stand out with bright colors to be easily identified.
- Next, determine the locations around your project site that require tags. Align these to the Tickets you’re already using in PlanRadar, or create new tickets, enabling the NFC Tags during setup.
- Get your teams using NFC tags on-site. Simply instruct project members to bring their mobile devices close to a tag, then they can view and update the appropriate Ticket in PlanRadar, just like they are used to. Even your subcontractors can use this technology.
Learn more about how PlanRadar works with NFC tags here.
NFC tags must be purchased separately from a PlanRadar subscription. Customers should take care to purchase the correct NFC tags for their needs and ensure mobile devices used with PlanRadar support NFC technology. NFC Tags must be readable by iOS and Android devices to integrate with PlanRadar on a mobile phone. PlanRadar works with tags that support the NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) and have a minimum memory of 100 bytes.
