10 things to do with SMS

The more you use SMS, the more uses you’ll find for it. To get you started we’ve listed some of the ways it can help your business.

If you need more ideas, just get in touch, tell us what you have in mind and we’ll provide some inspiration.

1 Reduce costs, save time

SMS messaging is the most cost effective way to keep everyone informed and up to date. They always have their mobile with them so they’ll always get your message.

With minimum effort you can reduce inbound calls and queries, free up your time and save money.

2 Calendar reminders

We don’t all have smartphones with calendars sync’d to our PC’s.

Reminders via text, either as a summary each morning or at scheduled times will help you work more efficiently.

Check out Microsoft OMS for the ultimate in calendar notifications.

3 Promotional marketing

SMS messaging offers you a world of promotional opportunities. If you’ve got a message to get out there send it straight into customers pockets.

Forget snail mail. Save the stamps, save the paper, the envelopes and the time it takes to stuff them. Send SMS instead. It’s cheaper, faster and measurable.

Target your database by age group, location or special interests. Send messages timed to coincide with events such as Christmas, public holidays, even music concerts.

4 Payment collection

With 97% of text messages opened instantly, response rates are higher than any other form of contact.

Reduce the number of outbound calls by sending polite SMS reminders as early as one day into arrears. Debtors will contact you within seconds of receiving the SMS and you’ll rapidly reduce debt, bring in valuable cash, and identify problem payers from those who are simply a little forgetful.

5 Customer updates

All respected retailers provide SMS updates with delivery information when you purchase online.

It’s simple really, regular information ensures complete deliveries. You’ll save money and keep customers happy.

But it’s not just delivery information, application status, bank balances, property valuations, quotes or appointments. Your clients want to know exactly what’s going on at all times.

6 Email notifications

When you use our Outlook 2007 service (OMS) you’ll receive email notifications via SMS. Ideal for when you’re out of the office but need to know about the arrival of important mail.

It’s about working smarter, not harder.

7 Business updates

Contrary to popular belief we don’t all spend our days staring at computer screens waiting for emails.

Keep everyone informed and motivated with relevant business updates via SMS. Send shop floor staff sales figures to keep them engaged. Tell everyone about corporate strategy, reaching significant milestones, new customer wins, acquisitions, new recruits or new offices. The list is endless.

8 Appointment reminders

Failed or missed appointments cost the NHS an estimated half a billion pounds last year, how much are they costing you?

Sending out an SMS reminder prior to your meeting costs pennies and could potentially save, or earn, your company a fortune.

9 Keep remote workers closer

If you have staff working off site or in situations where health and safety issues mean they can’t answer the phone immediately, don’t leave them out in the cold.

SMS messaging provides a vital link. Keep in touch, wherever they are.

10 Business continuity

Business continuity planning, once the preserve of large corporations, now plays a role in all organisations. In the event of a problem you may have backup servers and office accommodation but how do you tell everyone what’s happened and what to do next?

Set up a textburst account, upload your staff mobile numbers, and bingo, you have a tool that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.

What next?

Get started! You’ll surprise yourself with the number of uses you find for SMS, and if you need any more just get in touch.

Get in touch