The ease of SMS usage has become a huge boon to business. Not only is it inexpensive, but it’s also quick and simple. It is then not surprising that, like email, the use of SMS by businesses has also grown exponentially. If you’re an entrepreneur who intends to use this powerful business tool, then the following are the common SMS terms you should know:
1) SMS Short Codes
An SMS shortcode is a mobile phone number with a short and memorable number. This number is easier to remember, making it perfect for advertising campaigns. Most carriers and operators also use these numbers to deliver premium content services and other value-added services such as chat rooms, polls, quizzes, competitions, games, and shopping.
2) SMS blasts
This refers to the continuous and repeated sending of SMS’ or text messages to several recipients via an automatic system or computer software. Typically, this is done using a central system where contacts are stored. When the customer or the recipients subscribe to such a system, they can receive updates and other important information without checking their mobile phones constantly.
3) SMS Reports
This is a means of monitoring the use of a shortcode by subscribers. It indicates how many SMS’ have been sent, received, and forwarded. This feature is usually done via a computer program that gathers this information from other software such as database analyzers and server logs.
4) SMS tracker/monitoring
This refers to the service that monitors the usage of an SMS shortcode. The service sends information like how many SMS’ have been sent or received, the total number of messages sent or forwarded, and the number of times it was called. You can access this information through a monitor website, indicating the period you took these measures.
5) SMS forwarding
This is another term used for SMS blasts/sending. The same SMS message is forwarded to all recipients in the system to conduct SMS mass text.
6) SMS Sender
This refers to the service that manages the creation of SMS shortcodes or sending of SMS. For example, a phone company may have a list on its servers that allows subscribers to send text messages. The Sender would be in charge of creating this shortcode and sending it to the recipients.
7) SMS Users/Receivers
The term describes a person who subscribes or receives text messages via a short code, mobile phone number, etc.
8) SMS Providers
This refers to the people or companies that provide sending and receiving text messages. They are also known as Message Service Providers (MSPs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). One of their primary responsibilities is to deliver premium content via a web platform, mobile network, or other electronic communication means.
9) SMS Gateway
This refers to the technology used to send SMS messages. This is integral in sending or receiving text messages or SMS’ to and from many mobile phone users, either via a computer network or through a mobile phone. It is also called an installation service.
10) SMS Submission
This refers to the service provided by an SMS gateway that assists in creating an SMS shortcode and sending these messages. For example, subscribers can register for a free shortcode for contests, polls, chat rooms, news updates, etc.
11) Application ID/Registration number
This refers to the ID used by subscribers on software to send SMS’ or text messages. This ID is usually a string of 15 numbers and letters.
12) Respond-By Texting
This refers to a service that allows you to receive a specific mobile phone reply to send an SMS. This is usually done via an automated text message. The main advantage is that it allows the user to receive updates and information on the go, saving time.
13) Carrier, Network or Operator (MNO)
This refers to companies that provide telephone services such as voice and text messages to users. Examples are large telephone companies like MetroPCS, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless.
14) SMS Cost
You pay the price or charge for sending and receiving an SMS message. For example, if a subscriber sends an SMS message and receives an SMS response, then the text message could be free for the subscriber, or it might also be deducted from their account, and vice versa.
In conclusion, the above terms are useful in understanding SMS, whether you are an entrepreneur or a business owner.
Author Name: Elsa York