NFC is here but the daily battle with skepticism, general lack of knowledge and incentive are stifling adoption of the technology, according to a report on Cleveland.com.

Today, our phones are as essential as our keys and wallet, and for many a day without a phone is like a day without sunshine. The intimate relationship between user and smart phone has laid the groundwork for NFC adoption, but providing proper incentives may be key to unlocking the technology’s true potential.

A Forrester Research report reveals that retailers see NFC as a means to bolster brand loyalty and expedite the checkout process. However, current payment options are sufficient making consumer adoption of NFC increasingly dependent upon companies and devices offering a broader experience that transcends simple payments.

Forrester Research goes on to posit that worldwide NFC-enabled mobile shipments will more than double this year to nearly 100 million, while mainstream use of the technology is still three to five years out for many countries.

However, if NFC offers more to its users than just a means of payment— using mobile devices to check product availability, compare prices and pay mobile service bills directly from their handsets— NFC may yet have a place in the mainstream.

For the time being NFC deployments are somewhat sparse, but small businesses are reveling in the technology’s benefits. NFC offers smaller vendors the opportunity to accept card payments for a smaller cost and at greater convenience.

For more information read the full Cleveland.com article here.