There aren’t many surprises in business today. So it probably comes as no surprise that text messaging, or SMS, has surpassed calling as a preferred method of communication — particularly among young people. SMS texting is a phenomenon that can’t be ignored. And SMS for business is giving organizations ways to send targeted information quickly and easily. The advantages of SMS for business are many.
Texts are faster to create and send. They arrive and are read faster than email — in many cases almost instantly. And unlike email, virtually anyone with a phone can receive texts anywhere, since the recipient isn’t tied to a computer. SMS is a great way to communicate with the hearing-impaired and it’s more private than a phone conversation. And let’s face it, how often are people answering their phone when it rings?
Using SMS for business is convenient, economical and fast. Let’s take a look at how diverse businesses are using it to enhance their services and profits.
SMS and Business
Companies have devised many uses for business SMS, taking the medium beyond personal messaging and utility into the realm of an essential business communications tool.
Appointment-based organizations such as healthcare and beauty salons can make, confirm or cancel appointments with a simple text message. Bank accounts are managed securely with a few simple keystrokes, rather than requiring a login. Retail stores are sending receipts or links to coupons. Search engines can text driving directions, movie showtimes and business listings. With so much more potential for interactivity than traditional marketing, the practical applications of SMS for business are potentially limitless.
And group messages are booming. In addition to individual messages, SMS for business can be used to send texts to large groups of people at a time from either a contact list or by geographic area. It’s called “broadcasting” and it’s a quick and efficient way to contact targeted audiences with news, updates or offers.
SMS for business marketing is permission-based, requiring an “opt-in” much like e-newsletters, and is a great way to communicate to customers you already have a business relationship with.
History of SMS
Created in the late 1980s by Norwegian engineers, SMS was originally designed as a simple means of reaching mobile users when their phones were out of range or turned off. Most experts state that the first text message was sent way back in 1992 from the United Kingdom.
SMS — or Short Messaging Service — is a standard protocol for sending text messages over wireless networks. It is a universal service in that it works across voice networks using the standard network technologies, like CDMA, GSM or TDMA. It’s referred to as “short” because of a 160-character limit — more than enough for most text communications.
What Can It Do For You?
Almost everything. Exciting opportunities for marketers exist because of the universality and accessibility of SMS for business. With its real-time communication characteristics, timely messaging is possible like never before.
SMS for business can:
• Improve your marketing reach
• Create more recognition for your brand
• Make customer service cheaper and more accessible
• Encourage interaction with your customers
• Increase repeat purchases
• Present timely offers and incentives
As text messaging continues to increase as a mainstream form of communication, so too are the possibilities for integration with your own business applications. With Voxox SMS solutions, software developers can create peer-to-peer messaging applications that integrate directly into the mobile SMS Network.
New SMS marketing and communications tools used in conjunction with traditional media marketing are the components of a solid business strategy. Take advantage of SMS and enjoy the profit rewards of a successful business!
