Setting Up NFC Tags

Setting Up NFC Tags

Selecting suitable NFC tags and registering areas are key to tracking cleaning times and boosting efficiency.

NFC tags are compatible with multiple features, including timekeeping, quality checks, employee scan, and location scan.

Why use NFCs?	Unlinking NFCs Tags
Which type of tag is best for my company?	FAQ & Troubleshooting
Enabling NFC on Your Device	Additional Resources
Registering NFC Tags

Areas are required in the account to utilize NFCs.  To learn about creating Areas and Area types, click here.

Why use NFCs?

• Durability - NFCs can be weather-proof and scratch-resistant which is beneficial for high-touch or outdoor areas. 
• Versatility - NFCS come in several types, shapes, and sizes.  Some tags are more suitable for certain situations or work environments. 
• Appearance – NFCs can be more low profile compared to QR codes. 

Feature	QR Codes	NFC
Interaction	Requires scanning with a camera	Tap or bring close to a device
Speed	Slower (needs camera focus)	Faster (instant tap)
Durability*	Less durable	More durable
Device Compatibility	Any smartphone with a camera	Requires NFC-enabled devices
Setup	Print on paper in bulk	Individually map areas to tags
Cost	Typical printing costs	Varies by product
Employee Scan	🗸	🗸
Location Scan	🗸	🗸
Area Feedback	🗸
Area Status	🗸
Clock in/out (Timekeeping)	🗸	🗸
Scan2Inspect (Quality Checks)	🗸	🗸

*QR codes, when printed on standard paper, are prone to water damage and tearing. NFC durability varies by product but are typically scratch-resistant and waterproof.

Which type of tag is best for my company?

Before purchasing NFC tags, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• If your tags will be placed on a metal surface, NFC tags must be 'anti-metal' compatible.
• To prevent scanning issues, remove metal phone/device cases before utilizing an NFC scan.
• If your NFC tags will be placed outside, exposed to extreme heat or cold, or exposed to industrial chemicals, ensure that your tags are compatible.  Many tags will be labeled as weatherproof, scratch-resistant, etc.
• Tags smaller than ~0.5"/1.2cm in diameter may be difficult to scan with standard smartphones.

Enabling NFC on Your Device

Android

1. On Android devices, navigate to Settings.
2. Select Connections.
   
3. Enable NFC and contactless payments.
   

NFC can also be quickly enabled/disabled by selecting the NFC icon in the Quick Settings menu.

iOS

iOS devices that were released in 2018 or later automatically have NFCs enabled (Background Tag Reading).  Devices released pre-2018 need to enable NFC manually.

For iPhone 7 and 8:

1. On the device, open Settings.
2. Select Control Center.
3. Tap the green + next to NFC Tag Reader.

Registering NFC Tags

Users will need access to the NFC and Client Directory icons on JM Connect to register NFC tags.  Icons can be enabled using Security Groups.

1. On JM Connect, tap the Client Directory icon.  Users will see a list of locations where they are marked as trained.
   

2. Swipe left on a location and select the info icon.
   

3. Tap the Area button.  A list of areas for that location will be visible.
   
4. Select the Register NFC button for the desired area.
   
   
   • The Register NFC button will not be available for areas that are already registered to an NFC.
5. Once the app shows that you are ready to scan, tap the NFC tag on the back of your device.  You may need to press the tag against the back of the device or slide it around.
   
6. Once the tag has been registered successfully, the Register NFC button will no longer be visible.

Unlinking NFCs Tags

1. Go to Customers > Manage Locations.
2. Click the Edit Pencil in the Actions column for a location.
3. Click the Area tab. 
   
4. For the desired area, click Remove NFC button to unlink the area.

FAQ & Troubleshooting

Question: My device is not recognizing/scanning the NFC tag.

Answer: If your device is not recognizing the tag, try removing the case on your device, and/or moving your phone slowly over the tag.  The location of the internal NFC reader within devices varies by make/model.

Question: Can I use NFCs for public area types (feedback, viewing area status on the browser)?

Answer: No, NFC codes will only work when used with JM Connect.

Question: My NFC tag got damaged, will it still work?

Answer: Tags that have been ripped, torn, or cut will most likely stop working.  Tags that have been lightly scratched or scuffed may function, but replacing the tag is still recommended.  We recommend using tags made of heavier/sturdier/damage-proof material if they are likely to be damaged.

Question: How do I know which NFC is which?

Answer: We suggest labeling registered tags.  Some tags can be written on with a pen or marker.  If that is not an option, the tag can be placed on a plaque or identified with a label maker.

Additional Resources

Print the attached JM NFC Registration Tracker to keep track of registered NFCs.  This document can be useful when registering and tracking multiple NFCs at once.

For more information, or to send in a request to the Janitorial Manager support department, use the red 'Help' button in the bottom right corner of any Help Desk article.