In a blog article published in 2019, I described a few experiments that tested the level of NFC user experience. One of the conclusions was that users have issues with connecting the NFC tag and the reader device, due to a lack of detailed knowledge of the antenna locations. I noted that: “NFC forum should recommend system integrators and manufacturers to indicate clearly where the tag is placed, and where the phone´s antenna is located. “

Now NFC forum has published the Wayfinding Mark System. The marks are used for showing users the NFC tag placements, where the reading device antenna is, and whether the NFC functionality is used for charging or just for communication.

Read the detailed instructions and sign the trademark license agreement at the NFC forum website.

• The Wayfinding Mark is free to use.
• Just the license agreement needs to be signed.
• And obviously, the mark should be used as intended.

Wayfinding Mark Variations

There are 4 variations of the mark.

The default mark is “directional”. It can be used on tags and devices. It guides users to find the exact position of the NFC tag and antenna.

A “simplified” version can be used when users are expected to be more familiar with the NFC use case.

Many NFC devices have also the possibility to charge wirelessly via the NFC interface. This is indicated by a charging variation of the Wayfinding Mark. The “charging” mark should only be used when charging is possible.

NFC Powered Marketing

Another blog I wrote in 2019 presents an example of how NFC can support effective marketing and storytelling.

The Wayfinding Mark is royalty-free and easy to use. The more it is used by NFC device manufacturers and system providers, the more aware consumers will be about the mark and its meaning. And that will significantly improve the user experience of all the NFC systems.

Please, take the Wayfinding Mark into use.