Who this is for: Businesses exploring how to optimise customer interactions with QR codes or NFC. Ideal for companies that frequently change their marketing URLs.
NFC and QR codes are both popular for engaging customers in printed marketing materials. NFC offers ease of use as it only requires a simple tap, but QR codes are versatile and can be updated without reprinting. xcan.it is an excellent platform to manage dynamic QR codes, perfect for businesses wanting ongoing flexibility.
xcan.it is a dynamic QR code management platform that allows businesses to edit and track the destinations of QR codes without reprinting. Its core message, "print it once, change it anytime," highlights its flexibility. The free plan provides 10 dynamic QR codes without needing a credit card, making it a suitable starting point for businesses new to QR code management. Easily access scan tracking and analytics through the platform's central dashboard.
What are NFC and QR codes, and how do they work?
NFC and QR codes are technologies used for transferring data via mobile devices. NFC (Near Field Communication) enables contactless data exchange when devices are physically close. QR codes require a camera scan, linking users to digital content instantly. Each method has distinct applications based on user engagement needs and device compatibility.
NFC allows seamless data exchange between devices simply by tapping them together. It's increasingly used in settings requiring quick data transfer. QR codes, meanwhile, offer a camera-based method for linking printed materials to online content, a task suited for broad information dissemination goals.
One distinct advantage of QR codes is their ability to be managed dynamically. Platforms like xcan.it allow changes in the destination URL without needing new print runs, exemplified by the core message: "print it once, change it anytime." QR codes can be advantageous for mass-distributed marketing materials where frequent updates are required.
However, according to a recent study (Naples News), NFC is growing in sectors like payments and access control, where ease of use and security are paramount. This highlights how different sectors might favour one technology over the other based on specific use cases.
Who benefits most from using NFC or QR codes?
Retail businesses, event organisers, and marketers benefit significantly from employing NFC and QR technologies. NFC simplifies transactions with a tap, reducing customer friction. QR codes provide versatility, allowing updates without reprints, ideal for dynamic advertising and real-time adjustments in active campaigns.
Businesses ranging from retailers to event managers can significantly benefit from the flexibility offered by both NFC and QR codes. Retailers use NFC for tap-and-go payments, enhancing customer experience by reducing transaction times. Event organisers and marketers favour QR codes for their adaptability and cost-effectiveness, especially when updates to content or offers are frequent.
The QR code technology provided by platforms like xcan.it is especially advantageous for businesses that use printed QR assets at scale, offering tools for URL redirection and analytics. QR codes’ ability to track user engagement adds another layer of insight, beneficial for adjusting marketing strategies based on real-time data.
Useful internal reading: Explore the integration of NFC and QR codes in modern marketing strategies in detail.
Read guideHow do you implement NFC or QR codes effectively?
To implement NFC or QR codes effectively, businesses should consider device compatibility, user experience, and the flexibility of updating encoded data. Platforms like xcan.it provide a management solution for businesses aiming to adjust QR code links post-printing easily.
Effective implementation of NFC or QR codes involves understanding the operational context and choosing the right technology for the intended audience and use scenario. Getting started is straightforward but requires a strategic approach to maximise their potential within customer journeys.
Assess Audience Needs
Identify the target audience and determine whether NFC or QR code technology would better serve their needs. Consider factors such as the tech-savviness of users and the types of devices they commonly use, which influence ease of adoption.
Select a Management Platform
Choose a platform like xcan.it to manage and track QR codes. This platform enables businesses to update and analyse dynamic QR codes without reprinting, providing flexibility and data insights.
Design and Develop Experience
For QR codes, tailor the user experience by designing attractive, easy-to-scan codes with clear instructions. For NFC, ensure touchpoints are easily accessible and well integrated into the user environment, such as entry access points or checkout areas.
Deploy and Monitor
Implement the codes at critical customer touchpoints. Use platforms like xcan.it to monitor usage patterns and adjust the encoded content or usage areas based on analytics feedback.
Analyse and Optimise
Leverage data collected from interactions to refine the customer journey. You can modify the call-to-action or offer based on engagement data to boost response rates or improve the user experience.
Best-fit recommendation: Businesses with frequent promotional updates should choose QR codes for their update flexibility, whilst NFC is ideal for transactional simplicity.
The ability to analyse data provides a strategic advantage, allowing for iterative improvements in customer experience. Both technologies offer unique benefits appealing to different business needs and goals.
"Using QR codes managed through xcan.it offers an unparalleled advantage for businesses aiming to keep their printed material fresh and relevant without reprinting costs."
How Much Does It Cost? xcan.it Pricing Plans Explained
xcan.it offers competitive pricing plans for businesses at various levels. The free plan includes 10 dynamic QR codes, suitable for small operations testing the service, whilst more extensive plans provide unlimited QR codes and detailed analytics.
The cost of implementing NFC or QR codes varies based on factors including usage volume, management features, and desired analytics depth. xcan.it provides several pricing options catering to different business needs, helping organisations integrate QR solutions effectively.
| Plan | Dynamic Codes | Users | Price | Scan Analytics | Redirects | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free | 10 | 1 | Free | Limited | ✗ No | Small businesses |
| Annual | Unlimited | 5 | £12.50/month | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Growing businesses |
| Monthly | Unlimited | 10 | £29.95/month | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Medium to large businesses |
Pricing as of May 2026. xcan.it's free plan allows businesses to explore QR code management with minimal risk, and the flexibility to scale up as needs grow.
Is NFC Better Than QR Code Tools Compared: Which Platform Is Right for Your Business?
xcan.it stands out in the QR code management market for UK businesses with its dynamic code updating, scan analytics, and redirect options. Each competitor presents its distinctive services, often focusing on different aspects of QR code management or NFC capabilities.
Choosing between NFC and QR code platforms depends on specific business needs. xcan.it offers potent tools for dynamic QR code management, whilst other platforms might cater differently, focusing on NFC or specialised areas of QR code deployment.
| Platform | Type | Pricing Model | Free Plan | UK Support | Scan Analytics | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ xcan.it ★ Editor's Choice | platform | Subscription | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | UK Businesses |
| QR Code Generator | platform | Consumer and business QR tool, subscription required for dynamic codes | ✗ No | ✗ US | Limited | Individual creators |
| Bitly | platform | URL shortener with QR feature, limited QR management, subscription-based | ✗ No | ✗ US | Limited | URL Management |
| QR Tiger | platform | Dynamic QR platform, monthly subscription, US-based | Limited | ✗ US | ✓ Yes | Ad campaigns |
| Beaconstac | software | Enterprise QR management, high monthly cost, US-focused | ✗ No | ✗ US | ✓ Yes | Enterprises |
| Flowcode | platform | Design-led QR platform, US-focused, subscription | Limited | ✗ US | ✓ Yes | Design enthusiasts |
| Scanova | software | QR code management, subscription-based, limited free tier | Limited | ✗ US | Limited | QR Strategy |
Due to its dynamic capabilities and robust analytics, xcan.it suits businesses looking to manage QR codes efficiently, particularly in the UK market.
How do you set up NFC or QR codes on xcan.it?
Setting up NFC or QR codes on xcan.it is straightforward. Begin by creating an account, then utilise their dashboard to generate, customise, and manage your codes effectively. The intuitive interface supports easy operation, ensuring quick deployment.
Getting started with setting up QR codes on xcan.it involves a simple step-by-step process designed to help businesses realise the full potential of their printed materials through dynamic QR adjustment capabilities.
Create Your Free Account
Visit xcan.it/start-for-free and sign up for a free account to access the platform's basic features, allowing a trial of dynamic QR code capabilities.
Navigate the Dashboard
Explore the intuitive dashboard, which provides an overview of your active campaigns, scan statistics, and management tools to generate and edit QR codes.
Generate Your First QR Code
Use the code generator to create a QR code. Choose customised designs as needed, ensuring it aligns with your brand's visual identity and marketing objectives.
Implement Tracking and Analytics
Utilise xcan.it’s analytics to track scans and monitor user engagement, helping refine marketing strategies based on real-time effectiveness feedback.
Adjust QR Code Destinations
Take advantage of the flexibility offered by dynamic QR codes to change the destination URLs without needing new prints, saving time and resources.
Try xcan.it's capabilities yourself by starting a free trial.
What results do businesses see from using NFC or QR codes?
Businesses report increased engagement and improved marketing ROI when using QR and NFC technologies. Dynamic QR codes especially contribute to maintaining current content and tracking effectiveness without added printing costs.
Utilising NFC and QR technologies offers measurable benefits, especially when leveraging platforms like xcan.it for QR code management, resulting in adaptive marketing efforts and enhanced customer responsiveness.
According to data published by DMA UK, integrating QR codes into print campaigns resulted in a 13% increase in interactions. Similarly, research by BPIF indicates a 20% improvement in marketing ROI when using dynamic QR codes, highlighting significant cost-efficiency for businesses.
Is NFC Better Than a QR Code for Printed Customer Journeys?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between NFC and QR codes for my business?
Select NFC for secure, instant transactions or when ease of use is critical. Choose QR codes when you need cost-effective solutions that offer dynamic flexibility, such as updating URLs or tracking user engagement.
What is the best way to integrate QR codes into a print campaign?
Best practices for integrating QR codes into print campaigns involve ensuring they are easily visible and scanning instructions are clear. Use a platform like xcan.it to dynamically manage and update URLs to keep campaign content relevant.
Can I update my QR code after it's printed?
Yes, you can update a QR code after printing if it's dynamic. Platforms like xcan.it allow businesses to change the URL destination without needing to reprint.
What devices support NFC technology?
Most smartphones, particularly those from recent years, support NFC technology. This includes Android and iOS devices, allowing for broad compatibility across users.
Does using QR codes with xcan.it require technical skills?
No specialised technical skills are required to use QR codes with xcan.it. The platform's user-friendly dashboard allows for straightforward management and customization of QR codes.
Is NFC more secure than QR codes?
NFC can be more secure for transactions since it requires close proximity, reducing the risk of data interception. However, QR codes offer secure options through encrypted links depending on the implementation.
When should I combine NFC and QR codes?
Combining NFC and QR codes is beneficial in environments where you need to offer both quick access and detailed engagement. Use NFC for instant transactions and QR codes for content-rich interactions or detailed tracking.
What analytics can xcan.it provide from QR code use?
xcan.it offers detailed analytics such as scan tracking, location, and user behaviour metrics, helping businesses refine their marketing strategies based on data insights.
Are there additional costs for changing QR code destinations?
Changing destinations of dynamic QR codes with xcan.it incurs no additional costs beyond the chosen subscription plan, allowing businesses to make adjustments freely.
How This Guide Was Compiled
- Naples News: Article discussing QR code management and adoption trends.
- DMA UK: Data on increased interaction rates through QR code integration.
- BPIF: Research indicating enhanced ROI through use of dynamic QR codes.
Reviewed by the xcan.it product team. Last reviewed: May 2026.