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May 26, 2012
 

Who needs MMS? Deliver visual interactive mobile coupons using SMS.

MMS is both expensive and difficult to set up. You can have live links in SMS to images that can be viewed on the mobile web. With this simple tutorial we will show you how setup and optimise a full screen image and hide the URL bar. This gives the same full screen experience as MMS but with only the cost of an SMS. Web images are a visually impactful way to deliver sms coupons as well, either by showing them at point of purchase or you can tap them to generate an email or SMS with a code that can be used to trigger a redemption process.

Linktocoupon

The challenge is that different phones and operating systems handle images a bit differently. 

Inconsistent

What we really want is a link to a nice full screen image like the image at the top to bring the most impact to our SMS promotions.

What we need to do is create a web page to host your image, re-size it, hide the location bar and then link to it.

You will need to be able to host this small HTML file and your image on a web server somewhere.

 

<!DOCTYPE HTML>
<html>
<head>
<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8">
<title>Burst SMS Coupon</title>
<meta name="viewport" content="width=320; initial-scale=1.0; maximum-scale=1.0; user-scalable=0;" />

<style>
html,body {margin: 0; padding: 0;}
</style>
</head>
<body "setTimeout(function() { window.scrollTo(0, 1) }, 100);">
     <table style="display: inline-table;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">
          <tr align="middle">
               <td >
               <a href="mailto:coupon@burstsms.com?subject=MMWS1250"><img width="320px" src="burst50coupon.jpg"></a>
               </td>
          </tr>
</table>

</body>
</html>

 

You just need to change the code where indicated in bold text. You will notice we have included a basic tap to email redemtion process here. It is optional.

For a more complex coding sample for a wider variety of devices including tablets using Media Queries see this link http://pastebin.com/1WwpwUqL

Once you have your file and the associated URL, shorten and customise it using bit.ly. This service is great and has the added bonus of providing analytics on your link. 

Bitly

For best results we use an image 320px in width.

To get the above SMS coupon demo on your phone SMS the word COUPON to 0459 333 444

If you have any comments, or this doesn't work as expected, let us know and we will see if we can help with your next SMS promotion.

Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Assessing Your Mobile Strategy - Formulas That Can Help!

Properly assessing the particulars of your mobile marketing strategy is arguably the most important process you can undergo.  The ability to take a “big picture” view and see which strategies are hitting the mark and which are leaving consumers confused or uninterested can ensure that the investment being made for the medium is paying the proper dividends.  However, with so many variables in the mobile marketing arena, how can we tell which elements are worth of a closer look?  To help you accurately profile the successes of your strategy, we’re going to outline a few key points that will assist you in the pursuit of the perfect mobile approach.  With each point, we will provide a simple arithmetic calculation that you can use to get solid figures for your strategy analysis.

Consumer Opt-Ins

Regardless of how incredible the technology for SMS may be, if you don’t have a consumer list to send your offerings to, it won’t do you much good.  Some companies find it necessary to ‘purchase’ consumers lists, but this should be avoided at ALL COSTS.  Instead, simple signage that touts your mobile presence should help you generate interest among your existing clients.  Once you have this list, though, you have to nurture its growth.  Is the list growing or shrinking?  You can accurately track this number with the following formula:

(current subscribers) – (past subscribers) / (past subscribers)

This will give you a number that can be tracked easily.  Be sure to check these numbers quite regularly, as they can help you determine whether or not you need to change your strategy for inducing opt-ins!

SMS Turnover

SMS technology is a great way to reach consumers on a level that they feel comfortable with; however, there can be particular things that are turning them off to your mobile campaign.  While the formula can’t solve all of those issues, what it can do is let you know whether or not there is one!  Use the following calculation to discover whether or not you are creating enough value for your clients:

(Subscription Opt-Outs) / (Total # of Subscribers)

This simple formula can give you a tracking figure that will help you experiment.  Once you are able to tally and track the results of this equation, use that single number to accurately determine which strategies are working and which should be discontinued.

Tracking “Call to Action” Success

The entire purpose of using the technology for SMS users is to induce purchases or drive traffic, right?  To ensure that you are getting the most from your efforts, be sure that you are taking note of how many subscribers are actually moving forward based on the messages that your organisation sends out.  The best way to evaluate this is to gauge it ‘per message’, allowing your marketing team to determine which messages are received best by the recipients.  To gather this information, try this:

(Subscribers Taking Action) / (Total Subscribers)

Redemption Costs

Now that we have outlined all of the various campaign attributes that should be tracked, it’s time to finally address the investment amount per subscription redemption.  When you know how much you are spending, you can better understand the level of success your mobile campaign is delivering. 

(Cost per Delivered SMS Message) / (Redemption Rate)

These simple formulas can help you hone your mobile strategy, ensuring that you are making the most of the monetary investment and allowing your organisation to properly assess the use of SMS technology in your overall marketing campaign.  Track these numbers regularly, and you will see that with a bit of research and some ingenuity, a company can rapidly expand their consumer-base and take control of a target market!

 

Filed under  //   SMS   SMS Technology   Technology for SMS  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Finding a Partner for Mobile Marketing - Part 2 of 3

As we continue to consider the various elements associated with selecting your SMS provider and subsequent gateway, we will now begin diving into some of the pricing and covering aspects that you will likely encounter.  Making the decision to implement mobile marketing into your current strategy is the biggest step in the process, but with so many providers out there, you must consider a wide array of features before settling on the organisation that you intend on trusting your marketing success to.  We have already discussed the pricing styles you will likely see, and how to determine which are better for your unique needs.  But, regardless of incredible pricing, there are a few more things that you must understand.  I know what you’re thinking – does this ever end?  The answer is yes, and when you take all of this information into account, it will end with company success and a relieved advertising budget!

Examining the Coverage

What good is finding a solid deal from a mobile marketing Australia firm if they do not have the coverage you need to reach your entire target audience?  Be sure to get all of the coverage information from any company that you are considering.  An SMS gateway should provide you with the means of spreading your company message across continents, so unless you have absolutely no need for such expansion, do not make a deal with any company that is limited to domestic consumers.  There are certain elements that may impact the coverage, as specific mobile carriers handle things differently.  The mobile carrier industry is quite volatile, so do your best to get as up to date information as possible!

What are the Gateway Specifics?

Mobile marketing is about delivering your message quickly and efficiently.  Low-cost carriers will sometimes cut corners on gateway quality, so be sure that you compare the tech specifics of each provider you are interviewing.  Take advantage of any “trial” or “free” messages that a provider will give you.  Use these to test the gateway and learn whether or not the performance is worth the cost of the messages.  This can be one of the most important steps in the selection process.

Time to Get Tech-ed!

Ok, marketers…this is the part that you’ve all been waiting for – ok, the part that you’ve all been dreading, but I promise that we’ll make it quick and do our best to explain some of the technical stuff.  When gateways are sending out messages, you will come across a few different protocols.  From windows-based operations to web-based interfaces, each company will handle things differently.  Any web search regarding mobile marketing Australia will result in a wide variety of techniques.  If you have questions regarding the specifics, look them up at your leisure.   The interface will ultimately determine the quality of delivery reliability, so if you’d like to take things a bit beyond the “eye test”, research the tech angles that the SMS gateway takes, and make your decision with a bit more information.

APIs

Sometimes, it makes sense to bring an outside programmer in to help shape your mobile campaign.  API documentation is incredibly important, as it makes things much easier if you would like to step a bit outside the box when interacting with clients on a mobile level.  In some cases, an account is required in order to get a full view of the API of a particular provider.  While they have some reasonable reasons for doing this, transparency should be the key when it comes to earning the contact to facilitate a mobile campaign.

The right providing organisation should allow for simply payments, and while this may seem like a small part of the relationship between provider and corporation, your convenience should always remain the focal point of the service you receive.  If you find that the company isn’t offering up the payment options you’d like, don’t hesitate to find another!  After all, off all the things you need to consider when making this decision, ease of payment should go without saying!

Tune in for the third and final part of this series shortly!

 

Filed under  //   Mobile Marketing   mobile marketing Australia  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Improving CTRs with SMS Technology

It seems that consumers are being bombarded with emails these days.  Retailers, services, and products continue to reach out to you through your email box.  But, ask yourself a simple question:  do you really open them?  If you’re like us, you likely opened them early on, as it was fun to see what new offers were coming your way.  However, as time passed, we simply became immune to the technique.  After all, could we really buy everything we were offered via email?  This has caused many consumers to back away from the once popular marketing strategy, and opened to door to our new, exciting brand interaction – SMS.

When was the last time that you left the house without your mobile phone?  If you’re anything like us, the answer is “never”.  In fact, we quickly turn the car around if we realise that we have left it there next to yesterday’s loose change.  This “addiction” to mobile devices makes bulk SMS strategies incredibly effective, and, given the increased pace of consumer decision-making, ensures that the offer is actually received.  What is that worth?  As the marketplace shows, apparently, it’s worth enough to make bulk SMS the focal point of the modern advertising world.

The inclusion of URLs has elevated the SMS world from simply being a texting platform.  Tech testing will show that the click-through rates (CTR) of URL bulk SMS releases far surpasses those tested with the email counterpart.  In fact, testing the numbers has proven that texted URLs are twice as likely to be used as emailed URLs.  What does this mean for marketers?  Hold on tight, because we’re going to tell you…

Social media and online banner advertisements are delivering figures that average between 0.01% and 0.05%, with search engine PPCs coming in between 2% and 3%.  These numbers have been accepted as the industry norm.  However, texting URLs to consumers results in a CTR rate that surpasses 6%!  The difference is staggering and begs the question “what makes SMS so effective?”

The prevalence of mobile use only increases the potential that the channel has for company/consumer communication.  But, just like email, bulk SMS strategies won’t enjoy this level of effectiveness forever.  Consumers will always react to an advertising approach that is inventive and new.  This means that organisations that take the initiative today can ride the advantage provided by the technology before consumers become “numb” to it as well.

Advertisers are always looking to new ways to attract attention to special offers, branding dynamics, or new product releases.  Why not use the communicative channel that is dominating the globe even as you read this?  

 

Filed under  //   Bulk SMS  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Luring Subscribers with Bulk Text SMS Contests

There is little doubt that organisations that use SMS contests as a way to increase their bulk text opt-ins generally experience higher participation and retention rates.  The use of such concepts requires very little effort, and with proper technology, facilitating responses and compiling information is automatic.

This guide should help you create your own bulk texting contest, and give your subscribers a little something to get excited about:

Step 1:  Setup your Autoresponse Keyword

Keywords are the key in the bulk text universe, and using them to facilitate responses is essential.  An added benefit is that it helps to induce keyword responses on future releases, giving you access to incredible testing and profiling opportunities

Step 2:  Create Your Subscription Keyword

You’ll be bulk texting to some mobile users that are not currently participating in your mobile campaign.  Be sure that you have a keyword option set up that allows them to easily opt-in and receive mobile messages from your organisation in the future.

Step 3:  Facilitating Responses

The subscription keyword created in Step #2 is the important element of the SMS contest concept.  Once they text your short or long code with the Autoresponse keyword from Step #1, you can ask them to text the subscription keyword to receive special offers in the future.  Once they do, they’ve opted-in!

Because your customers are responding to a specific contest you are running, they are establishing contact with your mobile campaign.  Once they have responded with the first keyword, making your offer is a simple step that can generate incredible opt-in results. 

We have witnessed this strategy time and again, and because of the startling success rate, felt it prudent to share it.  All essential ingredients that make the mobile platform so versatile are present, and once keywords are used, encouraging similar participation in the future is simple!

 

Filed under  //   Bulk Text   Bulk Texting  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Mastering the Opt-Out Process

Knowing how to properly leverage your digital contact list can be the determining factor in the expansion and success of your organisation.  Many mobile marketers focus solely on the messages that are inducing consumer contact, though another, more important element exists – respecting your clients’ opt-out wishes.  When using a bulk text platform to interact with a target market, nothing can hurt the overall image of your company, or future participation rates, quite like ignoring requests to be removed from the campaign’s contact list.  Alienating clients is one of the biggest mistakes made by organisations new to the technology.  Governments have developed legislation to monitor this growing trend, and crossing the proverbial line into the wrong side of SPAM law can be devastating. 

Today, we’re going to touch on the various concerns that consumers have about being SPAMMED and how you can ensure that your organisation doesn’t suffer image damage because they simply didn’t know when to quit!  It’s true:  bulk text messaging is incredibly valuable.  When improperly used, things can go downhill in a hurry!

Consumer Concerns

In our experience, a vast majority of your bulk text feedback will involve the “unsubscribing” process.  When a customer requests removal from your bulk text list, be sure that their wishes are facilitated.  Nothing can drive business away quite like clients that are feeling smothered by your campaign.  And, always remember:  customers that opt-out may elect to opt back into the campaign at a later date.  Don’t give them a reason not to!

There are several instances in which a customer must respond to a campaign hub several times before being removed from the contact list.  This is unacceptable when using the bulk text messaging platform, and is often the result of a lack of automation within the SMS technology.  The feedback you receive regarding the lack of opt-out efficiency should be heeded!  It can help you make the necessary changes to your system design.  Granted, a single complaint may not justify an overhaul, but when the messages begin pouring in, it’s in your organisation’s best interest to take note.

Regular Auditing

Some companies manage their own mobile campaigns, while others use an outside source.  Whichever group you fall into, it’s always your responsibility to periodically check-in on the efficiency of your opt-out utility.  This is a great practice, and opting-into your own campaign can help you to better assess the amount of messages that are being sent and determine whether or not opt-out instructions are clear and effective. 

Many resources dedicated to this topic recommend that all mobile marketers opt-into their own campaigns to ensure that the messages are coming at a comfortable pace, that all opt-in or out utilities are operational, and determine whether or not the process can be sped up or streamlined.

Key Points of Interest (…your best interest)

Now that we’ve made it abundantly clear that opt-out utilities are essential and must be properly monitored, let’s cover a few steps that can ensure that your customers never become irritated with the difficulty associated with leaving a campaign:

Key #1 – Any opt-out request, regardless of its origin (email, SMS, or otherwise), should be facilitated immediately.

Key #2 – Any client that opts-out should be off of any listing within a “business week”.

Key#3 – Your opt-out utility should be simple to use and involve little to no charges for your clients.

Managing your mobile campaigns properly, you are getting the most from the medium.  Pay close attention to how easily your clients can opt-out, and they’ll feel far less trapped when receiving messages that do not interest them.  Your reputation is relying on it!

 

Filed under  //   Bulk Text   bulk text messaging  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

"Conspicuous Publication" - What it Means to Mass Texting Strategies

f you poll one hundred businesses locally, you’ll quickly learn that “spreading the word” about the company and any products or services they offer is the single greatest challenge they face.  Sales can be facilitated with consumers, but what happens when you are looking to interact with other businesses to create relationships?  B2B marketing requires a bit of a different approach, as the contact information that is offered up isn’t necessarily the place to peddle your services.  For example, using mass text messaging with contacts that you have gathered over time can create quite a rift between you and the very companies you are attempting to entice.  This is why the manner in which you collect contact information, and obviously the way specific organisations post their contact information, is a key cog in the successful management of a mass texting strategy.

We have discussed the various elements of “consent” in the past, and when an organisation is posting contact information in the public domain, it may seem that inferred consent has been given.  However, this isn’t always the case, and understanding the term CONSPICUOUS PUBLICATION can help us understand the difference.

SPAM Legislation and Conspicuous Publication

The Spam Act outlines just about everything we need to know when using an advertising medium such as mass text messaging.  Contact information that is posted on a website or in local telephone directories does not constitute express consent.  But, CONSPICUOUS PUBLICATION does allow us to potentially infer consent, provided that some particular conditions are satisfied.

·         Was the contact information published?

·         Does the contact information allow you to contact a BUSINESS?

·         Can it be assumed that the information was published with the business’s consent?

When using mass texting to directly market to specific businesses, you would be well-served to document how the information was acquired. 

Specific Conditions that YOU Must Meet

While all of this likely sounds incredible, there are some specific rules that you must heed when using published contact information to reach out with B2B aspirations:

#1 – The messages you send to the business must pertain to the role, position, or function of the individual you are contacting.  In other words, they must be relevant to contact, not just the only representative of the business you could find. 

Does the contact’s role with the company involve your products or services?  Will they be able to make purchase decisions regarding your products or services?  And finally, do they have the clout to elect to begin a relationship with your business?  If the answer is yes, then you’re likely safe moving forward.

#2 – When a site or publication uses a “No solicitation” disclaimer, abide by it! 

This is an easy one!  If they make it clear that they do not want e-marketing interactions, don’t send them any!

When working to determine whether or not inferred consent is a possibility, always consider the individual who will be opening the message and the presence of any “No e-marketing” disclaimers, as their relevance can be the key to highlighting your brand in a positive light, and helping you to building lasting B2B relationships.

 

Filed under  //   mass text messaging   mass texting  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Choosing Your SMS Provider - Part 3 of 3

We’re coming down the home stretch in our three-part blog regarding how to select a quality SMS provider.   Having already spanned some of the pricing variations and technical aspects of the industry, we are now going to dive into customer care and ensuring that your mobile company is giving you a quality experience in coordination with a platform that you can count on.  With a wide variety of SMS providers in the rapidly expanding mobile market, differentiating between who continually adapts their technology to the changing landscape and who has entered the business looking for a quick profit can one of the toughest decisions you’ll make as a marketer.  But, since we’ve already covered most of our bases in this regard, let’s finish things up and discuss the quality of care you should demand from your mobile organisation, shall we?

Account Management

In our experience, companies that lack in the account management area of business will usually lack in the client-care area, as well.  When you use the technology of an SMS provider, the user interface and account tracking systems should be top-notch!  If they are using a credit-based system, you should have no problem easily checking how many credits you still have available to you.  Purchasing more messages or credits should be simple, also, as any solid company would never want to inhibit your ability to send them more money, right? 

Take note of how the menu options are designed.  Are they easy to navigate?  Is there a ‘Help’ tab that allows you to get tips or certain guidance when you feel you need it?  The ultimate goal of solid SMS providers should be to allow you to manage a large mobile campaign with ease.  If you are finding that the organisation is lacking in these areas, don’t spend another second contemplating their hire.  Instead, look elsewhere, as you will find that the respected text marketing companies always take great pride in their user interface.  Detailed reports should be readily available, and the opt-out diagnostics should help you to better outline the strategies that generate the best response among consumers. 

Web-based Platforms

If the mobile company you are using is utilising a web-based platform, remember that some extra features may be necessary.  From password protection to IP locking, you want to be sure that something as sensitive as your advertising campaign is carefully guarded.  The ability to add multiple users should be well-outlined, allowing you to include members of your marketing team in the campaign releases.  Within these sub-categories, you should have no problem delegating specific features to each user, giving the campaign manager complete control over the process without having to peek over each user’s shoulder. 

Routing Options

This is an important feature if the SMS provider you have selected has a tiered pricing system.  Giving you the ability to choose the network route that your campaign will take can help you save money if you fully understand the drawbacks to less expensive gateway alternatives.  This is a simple utility that can help you to select from domestic carriers to international portals.  Saving money is the name of the game, and because mobile marketing lures many companies based on the budget saving element alone, you should always request a detailed report on your routing options (if applicable).

Consumer Response Facilitation

Ok, you caught us.  We used a fancy phrase for allowing your consumers to answer your test messages.  This is very important, however, as some may have questions regarding the offer or want a bit more detail.  When you have an internet point of sale, you can also redirect consumers to the link, allowing them to make purchases directly from their mobile device!  This can drastically increase sales, adding another revenue stream to the organisation.  We do not recommend using SMS providers that only offer 1-way messaging services.

Evaluating the Support Team

So, you’ve gone through the process and believe that you have narrowed down the candidates to just a few companies.  However, you have sent out your final questions and have only heard back from one of them in three days.  Well, then your choice is easy from here!  The support staff that a mobile provider offers is a valuable tool in the SMS advertising process, and if they are struggling to handle your questions before they have your money, how do you think you’ll be treated once you’ve transferred the funds?  Don’t tolerate poor client care.  If a company is taking far too long to respond to your questions about their service, move along and don’t look back!  Trust us on this one…

So, there we have it.  We’ve spanned three blogs and covered a wide variety of topics.  Hopefully, you feel that you have learned a bit more about the SMS messaging industry and how to properly choose a provider.  Take these points seriously and you will feel great about your decision for years to come.  Nothing can hinder a marketing strategy like having a medium provider that cannot grow with your organisation or facilitate even your wildest concepts.  Best of luck in your endeavors, thanks for reading, and we’ll be back soon with more information regarding the fastest growing advertising medium in the world – the mobile message!

 

Filed under  //   SMS Provider   SMS providers  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 25, 2012
 

Keys to Selecting Your PC SMS Provider

If you are interested in boosting sales this year, you’ve likely explored the possibilities associated with PC SMS marketing.  The ability to have direct contact with your customers is something that every company strives for, and if you are looking to get the upper hand on others in your market, you will want to leave no stone unturned to do so.  The SMS PC suites that have been developed are quite advanced, but your gateway will play a huge role in the success of your campaign.  Target clients will let you know when they want to be contacted through text messages, and when they do, you’ll want to have a solid campaign design in place.

Growing sales can allow an organisation to expand in a variety of ways, and of course, helps the stakeholders meet their quarterly goals.  Your consumer base can exponentially expand by simply sending promotional offers or account reminders, maximising convenience and greatly reducing the amount of time that passes from email or standard mailing techniques.

The decision to utilise SMS marketing strategies is simple, but finding the right PC SMS organisation…well, that’s a bit more complicated.  The cost-effective nature of the platform has piqued the interest of corporations across the board, so you’ll want to be sure that a computer interface is involved in the integration of your mobile marketing strategy.

We recommend outlining your campaign requirements long before searching for an SMS PC provider.  There is some intense competition out there, so be sure that you’re getting wholesale pricing through a larger provider’s purchasing power.  Also, the technology involved is a key ingredient.  Delivery is assured through quality gateways, so research the mobile networks that are used.  Additionally, the PC SMS programming should be efficient and offer 2-way communications.  If your clients answer your message, don’t you want the ability to facilitate their responses and answer back if necessary?  Of course you do.  Don’t forget this key feature.

Trial periods are generally offered through reputable SMS provider, so take advantage of the information you can gather through their use.  If the network is slow, you’ll undoubtedly notice.  It is much better to learn the negative aspects of a provider before you begin relying on them for your mobile campaign. 

Price is another important factor, but be sure that you aren’t simply using the cheapest service you find.  Granted, if you find a great combination of pricing and service, then you’re home free.  However, be sure that the service quality is there.  Don’t assume that low pricing means that the providing company is an expert in the industry.  Anytime you encounter a problem, your situation should be met with solid answers, helpful tips, and the necessary tech support to keep your campaign moving.

SMS gateways have quickly become the interactive platform between companies and clients.  You can eliminate many of the outdated means of communication, including standard mailers, and give your customers the up-to-the-minute information that they crave.  In the end, your company will maintain the image of advancement and technological understanding, which can boost market awareness and separate you from other organisations in your field.  

 

Filed under  //   PC SMS   SMS PC  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 17, 2012
 

Solutions: Lead Engagement via 2 Way SMS

SMS is great for personalised, immediate communication. Lead generation via marketing is one thing but being able to convert those leads is the job of direct sales communication. With 2 Way SMS your sales people can engage with a lead immediately with a simple email response.

What is 2 Way SMS?

Its exactly as it sounds however using Burst SMS you can use email instead of a phone to send text messages to a lead. To show how this is useful we will run through a scenario.

Scenario: We use a Real Estate example here but the sam process can be transferred to lots of situations.

A couple is driving around their favourite suburb on a Sunday afternoon looking at houses. They come across a house for sale and are immediately interested. On the sign outside is the prompt.

For info about this property text code 228PITTWATER to 0459 333 444

228pittwater
They instantly receive a text message that contains the address for reference and a link to a mobile optimised listing page, a video, app download or any other information that you like.

Sms-link

At the same time Peter the agent is at home checking his emails. He gets an email from the Burst SMS system alerting him that somebody has expressed interest in the property.

Inbox

Immediately he can respond to the email with his contact details and a courtesy message.

Reply
The lead can then engage with him directly with SMS via email in a 2 way conversation directly to their phone in real time.

Message

With the email train now happening the agent has the number and property of interest which for any good sales person is a quality lead.

The Setup Process

First you need a dedicated number to receive the SMS and keywords to initiate the lead.

In the KEYWORDS section of Burst SMS click on NEW KEYWORD which brings up the keyword setup window.

Screen_shot_2012-05-17_at_8

Here you can choose your keyword, purchase your number, setup your email forward and setup your auto responder. If you like you can also add leads to targeted lists.

Virtual Numbers

Sometimes referred to dedicated response numbers or longcodes, these numbers are dedicated to receiving SMS control keywords that perform actions in the software of the Burst SMS platform. These numbers cannot receive voice or voicemail, if you call a virtual number you just get a disconnected message.

Burst SMS virtual numbers cost $29 per month with unlimited keywords. We have other options depending on your requirements such as gold numbers as used in the example above.

Setting up Email

To send Email to SMS you must authorise the sending email address with your account. This is so we know who to expect messages from and who to send the replies back to.

Click on the EMAIL SMS button to setup your authorised email.

Emailsetup

You can then click on NEW EMAIL to set up your address. When sending email to SMS you will format the email address as 04XXXXXXXX@transmitsms.com this will send the content of the email to the number.

There are a couple of options, you can use a different format for the number if you want to send internationally or you can limit the characters sent in your SMS. You can also choose the number you are receiving SMS on.

This is basically all you need to get set up. It is a simple, cost effective way to engage with leads and get your lead the info they need to make decisions immediately.

If you need any assistance setting up 2 way SMS or Email to SMS just let us know. We can advise on how to get the most from your next SMS marketing activity.

Posted by Burst SMS 
May 13, 2012
 

eWallets Will Increase Mobile Usage Permanently

As we see consumers gravitate toward mobile devices for just about every aspect of daily life, the concept of the “mobile wallet” is stealing headlines everywhere.  The corporate world has already taken notice of the marketing possibilities, but how much money can be made when your customers can actually access you via their mobile and make a payment?  With bulk SMS strategies taking hold, the continued development of eWallets have definitely piqued the interest of mobile marketers everywhere.  When integrated properly, the bar can be raised to heights that we have never seen before. 

Paypal is beginning to change their projections, as they have already reached processed payment levels that are twice that of the original expectation.  With the United States market hitting $6 billion in mobile payments, for example, it is readily apparent that consumers are embracing the platform vigorously.  Google is also involved with “Google Wallet”, the application that provides users with the ability to make payments or complete purchases wherever they are.  The text to donate use of SMS in bulk has been extensively expanded, increasing consumer awareness of the technology as a whole.  The end result:  a more aware consumer base that is open and ready to adopt mobile technology for marketing and business needs.  Industries that have already taken steps towards creating such a system are reaping benefits more quickly than originally thought.

 

The involvement of Google signals big changes in the near future.  The technology is without equal, as Apple decided to drop similar technology from their latest iOS release.  So, let’s assume that consumers embrace the eWallet in the same way that they have adopted mobile marketing.  Now, when they receive information regarding a special promotion or opportunity, they can make the purchase immediately.  This changes the intent of bulk SMS campaigns, as instead of simply driving traffic to a location in hopes that consumers make purchases, you can now capitalise on the purchases instantly. 

Rumours are flying regarding the development of similar platforms by the major credit card players, also.  This could create a whirlwind effect that ignites a stream of technology and propels any mobile marketing campaign into the primary focus of the industry instead of a side-note tool to be used.  Retailers will obviously need to make the adoption, as well, otherwise you will have an army of consumers roaming around with their eWallets, but no one to accept the payments. 

Catching onto these developments now will prove very fruitful, in my opinion, when moving forward.  The prospects of mobile marketing combined with mobile payments can change the dynamic in the company-customer relationship.  SMS in bulk seemed to spark a revolution of sorts, giving companies the ability to reach international markets without physical locations, and giving marketers the ability to get instant results from various releases. 

Will consumers begin leaving wallets on the nightstand and simply taking their mobile devices with them for their daily activities?  If the writing on the wall is indeed correct, then we will begin seeing the alterations in corporate strategy right about…now!  Because there are so many opportunities created by eager mobile consumers, forward thinking marketers utilised the platforms that consumers themselves chose.  In doing so, we may be witnessing the next great technological evolution for corporate interactions with clients.  Will this be permanent?  There is no way to tell, but for the near future, it seems that the proverbial words of Bob Dylan still ring true:  “Things…they are ‘a changin’”.  

 

Filed under  //   Bulk SMS   SMS   SMS in Bulk   
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 12, 2012
 

SMS Marketing Expects 2012 Usage Jump

SMS Marketing has received yet another vote of confidence, as a report published in late 2011 outlined that the current numbers associated those marketing with SMS is about to drastically increase.  The e-Tailers Group expects mobile advertising to rise from 7% of corporate usage in 2011 to 29% in 2012!  This is a 400% increase, which is likely fueled by the cost-effective nature of the platform and the continued use of SMS messages by consumers.

There were some interesting numbers outlined in the report, however.  For example, the data showed that 14% of advertisers are currently collecting contact information for use in an SMS marketing campaign.  Yet, only half of that group is actually using the technology. 

The information detailed in the survey should come as welcomed news for mobile marketers, as it shows that while many are working towards marketing with SMS messages, many organisations have yet to actually capitalise on the opportunity – this leaves the door open for those who are actually implementing the strategy to reap incredible benefits before the “rush” on the platform begins!

 

Filed under  //   SMS Marketing   marketing with SMS  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 8, 2012
 

Using Mobile Messaging Throughout the Holiday Season

Mobile messaging has quickly become everyone’s preferred method of communication.  And, because the holidays tend to be a bit stressful for everyone, we decided to explore how you could use the technology to take a bit of the frustration out of the season’s activities.  An online platform can prevent you from struggling with the tiny buttons on your mobile device, which can only add frustration to the ordeal.  We’ve outlined a few of the many uses mobile messages can offer by using texts to handle some of your tasks when looking for gifts, setting up party details, and informing your consumer-base about upcoming sales or specials that can induce more traffic.  So, put on your gaudy holiday sweater, fire up your texting interface, and let’s get to work, shall we?

Greeting Cards

Snail mail doesn’t have the allure that it used to, does it?  And, while emails can provide similar conveniences on your end, they often won’t be read until after the holiday season.  Why not take advantage of the fact that everyone around you has a mobile device?  Send them a jpeg photo card that brings about a smile and spreads some of the holiday cheer?  Besides, how many people in your address book really update their current location with you every time they move?  And, instead of dealing with the cramping hand as you try to cram everybody in with your box of cards in front of you, you have the ability to personalise each message.  Avoid all of this hassle by simply sending your greeting cards via mobile messaging. 

Handle RSVPs

How frustrating is it when you set-up your holiday party to accommodate 35 and only 15 show up?  Or, the opposite can occur when you set up for 15 and get 35 guests!  Handle all of your RSVPs via the mobile messaging platform and get instant updates regarding who is coming, who may be bringing an extra guest, and who will be out of town and unable to make it.  You may even receive the last-minute confirmation while at the marketing shopping for supplies, saving you the trouble of having to make another trip later in the day to stock up.

Catalogues

Many retailers use mobile messages to gain instant access to their consumers.  If you are on the customer end of the equation, take advantage of their text campaign by texting the designated keyword to a short code and receive either a digital product listing or have a catalogue sent to your home.  You can handle these things while you are out taking care of other holiday chores.  If you are a retailer, consider implementing the strategy, as the holiday season provides a spike in sales revenue, and companies that make shopping convenient for their clients will ultimately reap all of the rewards.

Coupon Offers

As we watch the slow and painful recovery of the global economy, offer your customers a bit of a break by providing some SMS coupons.  This will help to inform your target market about the season’s product listing, help to drive value-based traffic, and most importantly, further increase the interest in your company’s mobile messages.  Everybody loves a sale, and when you use texts to inform your customers, the rush will be on!

Keeping Consumers Informed

Has one of your more popular products sold out?  Maybe one location has exhausted their product supply while others still have a sought after item in stock.  If so, let your customers know by texting them all of the pertinent information.  With a 2-way messaging platform, they can respond to your message, ask questions about available, and see if particular stores are altering their opening or closing times.  All of these benefits will help to build a trusting relationship between a retailer and their customers.

Games and Special Promotions

Nothing excites a target market like special promotions or gift offers.  You can reward mobile participation or loyal customers by adding a keyword-based drawing that extends well beyond the holiday season.  “Christmas in January” or other tailored promos can lure consumers to purchase products from your organisation instead of a competitor, as they get a chance at some incredible prizes!  It just makes sense, doesn’t it?

Status Checks

As you run to and fro handling all of your holiday tasks, remember that there are haircuts, parties, dinner reservations, and deliveries that must all be accounted for.  Use mobile messaging as a means of keeping track of all of these things.  Confirm with your stylist or alter your reservation times all by simply texting the establishment and getting things ‘set in stone’. 

The holiday season can be stressful if you wait until the last minute to handle everything.  However, the technologies that we have seen expand in recent years, namely mobile messages, can add a bit of relief to this busy period.  If you are operating a business, use the prevalence of SMS to stay connected with your customers and add an element of convenience to their holiday.  They will appreciate your efforts, and will share their experience with others.  This makes the season the perfect time to add signage promoting your mobile campaign.  Induce participation, create value through the platform, and make the messages relevant, and you’ll catapult your organisational sales figures into the coming year.

Happy Holidays everyone!

 

Filed under  //   mobile messages   mobile messaging  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 6, 2012
 

The Holiday Uses of Mobile Messaging

Mobile messaging has quickly become everyone’s preferred method of communication.  And, because the holidays tend to be a bit stressful for everyone, we decided to explore how you could use the technology to take a bit of the frustration out of the season’s activities.  An online platform can prevent you from struggling with the tiny buttons on your mobile device, which can only add frustration to the ordeal.  We’ve outlined a few of the many uses mobile messages can offer by using texts to handle some of your tasks when looking for gifts, setting up party details, and informing your consumer-base about upcoming sales or specials that can induce more traffic.  So, put on your gaudy holiday sweater, fire up your texting interface, and let’s get to work, shall we?

Greeting Cards

Snail mail doesn’t have the allure that it used to, does it?  And, while emails can provide similar conveniences on your end, they often won’t be read until after the holiday season.  Why not take advantage of the fact that everyone around you has a mobile device?  Send them a jpeg photo card that brings about a smile and spreads some of the holiday cheer?  Besides, how many people in your address book really update their current location with you every time they move?  And, instead of dealing with the cramping hand as you try to cram everybody in with your box of cards in front of you, you have the ability to personalise each message.  Avoid all of this hassle by simply sending your greeting cards via mobile messaging. 

Handle RSVPs

How frustrating is it when you set-up your holiday party to accommodate 35 and only 15 show up?  Or, the opposite can occur when you set up for 15 and get 35 guests!  Handle all of your RSVPs via the mobile messaging platform and get instant updates regarding who is coming, who may be bringing an extra guest, and who will be out of town and unable to make it.  You may even receive the last-minute confirmation while at the marketing shopping for supplies, saving you the trouble of having to make another trip later in the day to stock up.

Catalogues

Many retailers use mobile messages to gain instant access to their consumers.  If you are on the customer end of the equation, take advantage of their text campaign by texting the designated keyword to a short code and receive either a digital product listing or have a catalogue sent to your home.  You can handle these things while you are out taking care of other holiday chores.  If you are a retailer, consider implementing the strategy, as the holiday season provides a spike in sales revenue, and companies that make shopping convenient for their clients will ultimately reap all of the rewards.

Coupon Offers

As we watch the slow and painful recovery of the global economy, offer your customers a bit of a break by providing some SMS coupons.  This will help to inform your target market about the season’s product listing, help to drive value-based traffic, and most importantly, further increase the interest in your company’s mobile messages.  Everybody loves a sale, and when you use texts to inform your customers, the rush will be on!

Keeping Consumers Informed

Has one of your more popular products sold out?  Maybe one location has exhausted their product supply while others still have a sought after item in stock.  If so, let your customers know by texting them all of the pertinent information.  With a 2-way messaging platform, they can respond to your message, ask questions about available, and see if particular stores are altering their opening or closing times.  All of these benefits will help to build a trusting relationship between a retailer and their customers.

Games and Special Promotions

Nothing excites a target market like special promotions or gift offers.  You can reward mobile participation or loyal customers by adding a keyword-based drawing that extends well beyond the holiday season.  “Christmas in January” or other tailored promos can lure consumers to purchase products from your organisation instead of a competitor, as they get a chance at some incredible prizes!  It just makes sense, doesn’t it?

Status Checks

As you run to and fro handling all of your holiday tasks, remember that there are haircuts, parties, dinner reservations, and deliveries that must all be accounted for.  Use mobile messaging as a means of keeping track of all of these things.  Confirm with your stylist or alter your reservation times all by simply texting the establishment and getting things ‘set in stone’. 

The holiday season can be stressful if you wait until the last minute to handle everything.  However, the technologies that we have seen expand in recent years, namely mobile messages, can add a bit of relief to this busy period.  If you are operating a business, use the prevalence of SMS to stay connected with your customers and add an element of convenience to their holiday.  They will appreciate your efforts, and will share their experience with others.  This makes the season the perfect time to add signage promoting your mobile campaign.  Induce participation, create value through the platform, and make the messages relevant, and you’ll catapult your organisational sales figures into the coming year.

Happy Holidays everyone!

 

Filed under  //   mobile messages   mobile messaging  
Posted by Burst SMS 
May 6, 2012
 

More Than Short Codes - Important Mobile Imaging Tips

One of the biggest challenges in marketing today involves the avoidance of SPAM techniques that can cloud your overall advertising voice.  As consumers use their mobile devices to make purchasing decisions, there is a bombardment occurring that can make it tough to stand apart from the crowd.  However, by understanding the evolution of the technology, and of course consumer trends, an organisation can ensure that they do not fall into line with all other companies that have taken to the digital platform, but instead, use information to their advantage, creating a unique marketing message and driving traffic in all of the right ways!  Through SMS messages and short codes, any marketer can take advantage of the reliance upon our digital minds – namely, our mobile devices.

There are several ways to properly avoid the chaotic approach that many take with digital advertisements.  After all, we’re crafting a message and looking to develop relationships…not taking a “shock and awe” approach…

Take Advantage of the Platform’s Qualities

Internet marketing strategies are often misapplied to the mobile realm.  Consider that websites are very “static” in nature, and that look to “talk at” their visitors, not talk with them.  This means that taking the same approach to your mobile campaign that you take with your internet campaign will essentially give you two websites – in this case, that won’t be very helpful. 

Instead, look to interact with your target markets.  Give them the connections that they crave by offering up great information, looking to include them in industry decisions and trends, and of course, offer them expert analysis on the subjects that they care about.  The channel should be simple to access, which is why SMS short codes have emerged to provide a simple gateway into the mind of an organisation.   

Understanding “Mobility”

The mobile marketplace will shift about as often as human interests, which can mean that you’ll always need to be on your toes.  People move quickly, and because there are always “places to go and people to see”, generating interest in your product and then maintaining that interest is the key component to successfully implementing mobile marketing.  You want your target market to feel that they are interacting with your brand.  Posting short codes and then using the conversations that ensue to make your organisation interesting to consumers

Taking Advantage of Connectivity and Context

Context is very important in today’s marketplace, and because speed is of the essence, you must be sure that you are making all of the necessary modifications to your campaign.  Posting SMS short codes and creating interesting content are only half the battle.  Your advertising voice is no longer enough.  You must now be sure that contextually, your organisation is using the immediate nature of the technology to the fullest.

Understand that “Things Have Changed”!

Things in the marketing industry are not as they used to be.  A single voice is not what consumers are going to relate to.  Instead, a successful campaign consists of a universal concept that is applied to varying degrees to all of the different platforms.  Digital marketing is about engagement, but certain nuances will shift the “way” that the messages are delivered and received in each area.

Remember:  Fair Trade

One careful trap to avoid when crafting your mobile marketing message is assuming that because consumers have opted-in, you now have free reign.  Instead, remember that an opt-in is just the beginning, and now your organisation must deliver on that potential.  Creating value is a simple endeavor, but you must accurately gauge your target market and take note of how varying elements are received.  Reward your customers for their involvement in your mobile campaign – neglect this point, and they won’t be mobile customers for very long!

There are several different elements that must be considered in order to capture and maintain the attention of a wide target audience.  By keeping these tips in mind, and always crafting your various releases to meet these ends, you’ll be able to weave an informative tale of company expertise and product offerings that ensure that word will quickly spread about the benefits and unique nature of your mobile SMS campaign.

 

Filed under  //   SMS short codes   short codes  
Posted by Burst SMS