Setting up an SMS (short message service, or text messaging) service involves obtaining a short code, building the back-end software to power the service and creating a sales and marketing plan to sell SMS messaging. A short code is the five digit to six digit number that is used by consumers to sign up for text message campaigns (e.g., Text PIZZA to 12345). The back-end software is a web-based program that actually sends the messages. It's the combination of technology and marketing that will make your SMS business a success.
Determine your target market and create a comprehensive marketing plan to reach these businesses who will be your customers. Business-to-consumer businesses are typically the best type to utilize SMS marketing.
Build an SMS gateway, a software program that interfaces with the short code and the cell phone carriers. This will be your back-end software platform. If you don't have the computer programming skills to accomplish this, hire someone with these skills to do the work for you.
Begin doing face-to-face selling to get businesses signed up for text messaging services. The end users, who are their customers, are the people who will actually receive the SMS messages.
Obtaining a short code is a critical step to setting up an SMS service. Go to the Common Short Code Administration website, click on "Obtain a Code" and follow the detailed instructions. This process, including waiting time, will take you 6 weeks to 12 weeks or more from start to finish.
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