Episode Description
Payment flexibility isn't about accepting more card brands. Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover - four ways to access the same infrastructure. Real flexibility
comes from how customers initiate payments.
There are seven distinct initiation methods - each designed for a different context. Cards work where terminals exist. These methods work where cards don't.
This episode covers:
- QR code scanning - retail checkout, printed invoices, restaurant tables, event tickets
- NFC contactless - point-of-sale, transit, vending, the fastest sub-second tap experience
- BLE proximity - drive-through, walk-through checkout, smart parking, configurable detection range
- Payment links - e-commerce, WhatsApp commerce, email invoicing, cart recovery
- SMS/text initiation - bill reminders, deposits, subscriptions, 98% open rate
- Barcode scanning - compatible with existing scanner infrastructure, item and payment combined
- Soundbite audio signals - radio and podcast commerce, live events, broadcast environments
- Context-to-method mapping: which method fits retail, e-commerce, drive-through, events, B2B invoices, and subscriptions
- Why all seven share the same underlying flow - initiate, banking app opens, authenticate, instant settlement
Full source material and the complete guide: payware.eu/en/articles/seven-payment-methods
Produced by payware - the transaction resolution network for instant A2A payments.
AI-generated from payware's published research and documentation.