You are losing out. People are searching for your business right now on their mobile device. Your regular website will just not do. We have put together a great package for business. Perfect for Restaurants, Bars, Pubs, Salons, Limo services, realtors and so much more.
Get Yours HERE
TEXTit Communications Mobile Text Marketing for Canada
Take Your Business Mobile
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Mobile Websites Special
Mobile Website Special
Give your customers an easy to use, quick loading, mobile site that will get you more business.
Give your customers an easy to use, quick loading, mobile site that will get you more business.
When friends go out and want to find a place to eat, shop, or chill, they go to their mobiles first. If you need that particular item while you're out and don't know where to find it, what will you do? That's right, you'll break out your phone. You'd be amazed what people search for on their mobiles. They are searching for you right now. You can't afford to not have a mobile web site. And at this price, you no longer have an excuse not to have one.
We'll assess your website, match up the design, and integrate the content. This is a great solution for: - Nightclubs, bars, & restaurants
- Salons
- Clinics, medical and, therapeutic services
- Personal pages
- Flash sites as they do not load on mobile devices
- Lawyers
- Accountants
- Taxi & Limousine Services
- Small businesses of any sort
- Retailers
- Hotel & Lodging
Plus many more.
This is a great way to attract new customers. We will even build it for you. That's right we'll add your about page, contact info, hours and more.
What you get...- A mobile site that matches your current site. We build it for you!
- Up to 10 static pages (Option to purchase additional pages.).
- Dynamic pages: A page you can update, contact form, and photo gallery.
- Google Map with directions.
- Click to Call: No wasting time trying to find your number. Customers can call you by clicking a link from your site.
- Redirect users to your mobile site from your regular site.
- Quick loading: We cache your content and optimize the images so they load faster.
- Hosting and traffic included for the first year ($50 value!)
You pay only $30 annually for hosting, maintenance, and domain renewal. - Support for your site on over 5000 devices.
- SEmO: A Search Engine Mobile Optimized site.
- Google Mobile Sitemaps: We create the mobile xml sitemap that's gets you discovered on Google.
- Socialization: Share with Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and more. They can also tell a friend.
- Analytics: Track your customers. We integrate AdMob mobile analytics to your site so you can track your visitors.
- Your own .mobi domain included! The .mobi domain tells the world you are mobile ready.
- Monetization: If you wish, we can put Google Ads on your site.
- In 4-7 business days turnaround time.
Don't let the small price fool you. Get a sophisticated mobile powered presence today
Get your mobile website here.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Mobile Pound Codes for Mobile Marketing and Direct Response
HOW IT WORKS
Consumers see or hear an advertising call-to-action, “just dial for example #250 on your mobile phone and say (keyword)”. The keyword can be the advertiser’s brand, product or promo name.
WHY USE POUND CODES?
Consumers do not have to remember or write down random phone numbers or SMS short codes to reach the advertiser. They only have to remember the brand or product name. This results in higher response rates and more sales!
Anchor Mobile transforms traditional brand advertising like Outdoor and Print into interactive, trackable media -- allowing it to compete with Online.
With sustained use as a call-to-action, your advertising clients will see higher response rates for the same level of media weight -- i.e. if they receive 80 calls per radio spot today, they should see 100 calls for the exact same ad, due to the ease of dialing and saying the product or company name. Same goes for generating foot traffic for bricks & mortar retailers -- delivering the store location & coupon to the consumer's handset will drive more of them into the store.
Unlike most advertising that is paid for whether or not it works, advertisers only pay for pound calls received. And given that response rates will increase, there is not a better advertising value.
POUND CODE also allows marketers to reach demographic groups that are less likely to text -- e.g. older consumers, disabled, or simply the 50% of the market that does not have a QWERTY keyboard!
For more on mobile text marketing
Consumers see or hear an advertising call-to-action, “just dial for example #250 on your mobile phone and say (keyword)”. The keyword can be the advertiser’s brand, product or promo name.
WHY USE POUND CODES?
Consumers do not have to remember or write down random phone numbers or SMS short codes to reach the advertiser. They only have to remember the brand or product name. This results in higher response rates and more sales!
Anchor Mobile transforms traditional brand advertising like Outdoor and Print into interactive, trackable media -- allowing it to compete with Online.
With sustained use as a call-to-action, your advertising clients will see higher response rates for the same level of media weight -- i.e. if they receive 80 calls per radio spot today, they should see 100 calls for the exact same ad, due to the ease of dialing and saying the product or company name. Same goes for generating foot traffic for bricks & mortar retailers -- delivering the store location & coupon to the consumer's handset will drive more of them into the store.
Unlike most advertising that is paid for whether or not it works, advertisers only pay for pound calls received. And given that response rates will increase, there is not a better advertising value.
POUND CODE also allows marketers to reach demographic groups that are less likely to text -- e.g. older consumers, disabled, or simply the 50% of the market that does not have a QWERTY keyboard!
For more on mobile text marketing
Mobile Business Cards
How many times have you been asked for your business card and said::mobile business cards
* I left them in my car
* I don't have any with me
* I need to get more made
A UNIQUE & ENGAGING WAY TO NETWORK YOURSELF TO YOUR PROSPECTS AND CUSTOMERS.
When requested - Your card is sent immediately to your customer's mobile phone for
easy saving as a mobile SMS business card with CLICKABLE contact info including:
* Phone Numbers
* Email Address
* Web Link
* Directed to mobile website.
Find out more about mobile text marketing.
* I left them in my car
* I don't have any with me
* I need to get more made
A UNIQUE & ENGAGING WAY TO NETWORK YOURSELF TO YOUR PROSPECTS AND CUSTOMERS.
When requested - Your card is sent immediately to your customer's mobile phone for
easy saving as a mobile SMS business card with CLICKABLE contact info including:
* Phone Numbers
* Email Address
* Web Link
* Directed to mobile website.
Find out more about mobile text marketing.
Location Based Text Messages - SMS Smart Bomb
Location Based Text Messages - SMS Smart Bomb
The guided missle of mobile marketing
Our revolutionary, Location-based SMS marketing platform offers CIA quality cell tower triangulation to deliver relevant messages to opted in subscribers based on their whereabouts
Drop a mobile coupon on consumers:
GEO-FENCING AND SMS MESSAGE FLOW CUSTOMIZATION
SMS Smart Bomb uses geo-fencing API technology to deliver relevant SMS to your fans
The guided missle of mobile marketing
Our revolutionary, Location-based SMS marketing platform offers CIA quality cell tower triangulation to deliver relevant messages to opted in subscribers based on their whereabouts
Drop a mobile coupon on consumers:
- SMS At the right moment
- SMS At the right place
- SMS While they are in the right frame of mind
- SMS On any phone (no GPS required)
- SMS Double Opt in REQUIRED
GEO-FENCING AND SMS MESSAGE FLOW CUSTOMIZATION
SMS Smart Bomb uses geo-fencing API technology to deliver relevant SMS to your fans
- Geo-fencing allows you to create a defined, virtual space around a location or multiple locations.
- When your customer is within the geo fence they receive an SMS specific to that geo-fence.
- In addition to proximity data, Smart Bomb SMS uses time and day of week to ensure your messages are more relevant to a consumer's particular frame of mind.
- Your customers simply double opt-in to subscribe to be located and you can manage messaging frequency, offers and links.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Track QR Codes
We spoke about them earlier, QR Codes or Quick Response Codes. What is so unique about QR Codes is you can place them virtually anywhere and now we offer tracking. See how many times your code has been scanned. and at which locations the scan occurred. This is a great way to track the effectiveness of your codes.
Place them on your websites, facebook, twitter, blogs, newspaper ads, magazines, business cards, billboards..the possibilities are endless.
Mobile marketing from TEXTit Communications is constantly bringing you new features which in turn just brings more value to you, our valued customers.
We invite you to visit us on twitter or our website. If you are on LinkedIn why not join us there to!
Place them on your websites, facebook, twitter, blogs, newspaper ads, magazines, business cards, billboards..the possibilities are endless.
Mobile marketing from TEXTit Communications is constantly bringing you new features which in turn just brings more value to you, our valued customers.
We invite you to visit us on twitter or our website. If you are on LinkedIn why not join us there to!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Mobile Websites..Why bother?
Many businesses large and small have fantastic websites. Well that is great for the desktop user but what about those who are on the move. Mobile usage is skyrocketing and you are losing out on potential business. There are over 4.8 billion mobile users worldwide and only 1.3 billion Internet users. It's obvious that more and more people are accessing websites through their cell phones.
Remember, a mobile website does NOT replace your existing website. It is a website that looks and feels like your normal website but only has the essentials and is easy to navigate.Local searches for products and services from mobile devices is one of the most widely used features and if potential customers can't find you or access your current site it is likely they found one of your competitors instead.
Remember, a mobile website does NOT replace your existing website. It is a website that looks and feels like your normal website but only has the essentials and is easy to navigate.Local searches for products and services from mobile devices is one of the most widely used features and if potential customers can't find you or access your current site it is likely they found one of your competitors instead.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
SmartPhones outsell Desktop PC's
According to IDC, smartphone manufacturers shipped 100.9 million devices in the fourth quarter of 2010, while PC manufacturers shipped 92.1 million units worldwide. Or, more simply put, smartphones just outsold PCs for the first time ever.
This is great news for Mobile Marketing Canada. It shows that mobile is the way to go.
This is great news for Mobile Marketing Canada. It shows that mobile is the way to go.
Monday, February 7, 2011
QR Code Marketing
Mobile marketing is growing by leaps and bounds. Something that has been used in Europe for years is QR Code Marketing. Still in its infancy in USA and Canada now is the time to learn what QR Codes are and how to use them.
Many marketers are looking to this new mobile technology to keep in touch with consumers, but some fail to consider how it can be integrated with existing marketing systems both on- and offline. Anyone with a camera-enabled smartphone can scan a QR Code after a one-time download of a free decoding app. They are also known as 2D Barcodes and consist of a small square of black and white blocks that can be read by the app.
QR Codes can be coded to do a variety of things including open a web browser, create a coupon, give access to exclusive, free content or even tell a user where they are.
By placing QR Codes in offline locations such as packaging, billboards, in the press or on direct mail campaigns consumers with smartphones can quickly be connected to the digital world - a hard-copy link, if you like.
Used creatively and relevantly, QR codes can be a powerful marketing tool, and there are many potential uses and placements.
Try our QR code.
Many marketers are looking to this new mobile technology to keep in touch with consumers, but some fail to consider how it can be integrated with existing marketing systems both on- and offline. Anyone with a camera-enabled smartphone can scan a QR Code after a one-time download of a free decoding app. They are also known as 2D Barcodes and consist of a small square of black and white blocks that can be read by the app.
QR Codes can be coded to do a variety of things including open a web browser, create a coupon, give access to exclusive, free content or even tell a user where they are.
By placing QR Codes in offline locations such as packaging, billboards, in the press or on direct mail campaigns consumers with smartphones can quickly be connected to the digital world - a hard-copy link, if you like.
Used creatively and relevantly, QR codes can be a powerful marketing tool, and there are many potential uses and placements.
Try our QR code.
Friday, February 4, 2011
5 Important Statistics Supporting The Need For Mobile Websites
5 Important Reasons That Landlords Should Have A Mobile Website
[2] Canadian Mobile Subscriptions to Climb 20% by 2014 http://www1.emarketer.com/Article.aspx?R=1007747
[3] Canadian Smartphone Growth and the Ever Hungry Consumer, http://www.cylinder8.com/canadian-smartphone-growth-and-the-ever-hungry-consumer/
[4] The Insider’s Guide To Mobile Web Marketing In Canada, http://mobithinking.com/guide-mobile-web-canada
[5] New Study Shows The Mobile Web Will Rule By 2015, http://mashable.com/2010/04/13/mobile-web-stats/
- Half of all phone connections in Canada are now wireless. [1]
- Canadian mobile subscriptions to climb 20% by 2014, resulting in a smartphone penetration of 50%. [2]
- The demand for smartphones is increasing exponentially as manufacturers and cell carriers reduce pricing on both devices and data-plans to get us consuming ever more mobile content. [3]
- 75% if all Canadian households now have a mobile phone. [4]
- A new study shows that mobile web browsing will rule by 2015. [5]
[2] Canadian Mobile Subscriptions to Climb 20% by 2014 http://www1.emarketer.com/Article.aspx?R=1007747
[3] Canadian Smartphone Growth and the Ever Hungry Consumer, http://www.cylinder8.com/canadian-smartphone-growth-and-the-ever-hungry-consumer/
[4] The Insider’s Guide To Mobile Web Marketing In Canada, http://mobithinking.com/guide-mobile-web-canada
[5] New Study Shows The Mobile Web Will Rule By 2015, http://mashable.com/2010/04/13/mobile-web-stats/
Which industries/sectors have shown the most interest in mobile Web/marketing in Canada?
The pioneers were the mobile-content providers – i.e. those offering ringtones, games and other paid-for services.
Consumer-facing brands in financial services, travel, entertainment, automotive, retail and food and beverage have also been quick to see the potential of mobile marketing.
According to Amielle Lake, CEO of mobile marketing company Tagga Media, there has been a lot of success stories among food and beverage brands such as Coors Light, Global Restaurants and Old Dutch Foods.
At Sympatico.ca Mobile, which lays claim to the largest mobile advertising network, Brad Cressman, head of sales and marketing explains: "Sympatico focuses on brand advertisers, rather than content advertisers (ring tones, downloads etc…) and has found that success with mobile advertising follows a similar pattern to online with top-tier brands in the top-spending categories. The auto market has been very active, particularly Acura, Lexus and GM for example. One of the greatest benefits of mobile is the ability to combine brand advertising with customer engagement – brands like Starbucks, McDonald’s and Axe (Unilever) have followed this strategy.
Consumer-facing brands in financial services, travel, entertainment, automotive, retail and food and beverage have also been quick to see the potential of mobile marketing.
According to Amielle Lake, CEO of mobile marketing company Tagga Media, there has been a lot of success stories among food and beverage brands such as Coors Light, Global Restaurants and Old Dutch Foods.
At Sympatico.ca Mobile, which lays claim to the largest mobile advertising network, Brad Cressman, head of sales and marketing explains: "Sympatico focuses on brand advertisers, rather than content advertisers (ring tones, downloads etc…) and has found that success with mobile advertising follows a similar pattern to online with top-tier brands in the top-spending categories. The auto market has been very active, particularly Acura, Lexus and GM for example. One of the greatest benefits of mobile is the ability to combine brand advertising with customer engagement – brands like Starbucks, McDonald’s and Axe (Unilever) have followed this strategy.
How big or advanced is mobile Web in Canada? What's the potential?
“Canada is a world leader in wireless telecommunications. Wireless keeps us better connected, increases business productivity, provides jobs and prosperity, and plays a valuable role in keeping our communities safe and secure,” says Bernard Lord, president and CEO, The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) .
Essential facts and stats about mobile from Lord/CWTA:
• Canada was one of the first countries to establish a nationwide 3G network. Currently, the 3G footprint covers more than 90 percent of the population. Continuing investment by carriers means Canada will also have a world-leading 3.5G network.
• 22 million cell-phone subscribers (over 66 percent of the Canadian population) at end of 2009, expected to reach 30 million within five years.
• 75 percent of all Canadian households have a mobile phone.
• 50 percent of phone connections in Canada are wireless.
• Canadians send 100 million text messages per day.
Essential facts and stats about mobile Web:
• 21 percent of mobile consumers (or 4 million Canadians) use their mobile phones to browse the Web (Nielsen Online, June 2009).
• 53 percent of mobile users have an Internet-ready device, (Sympatico.ca [Bell Canada] survey, September 2009).
Essential facts and stats about mobile from Lord/CWTA:
• Canada was one of the first countries to establish a nationwide 3G network. Currently, the 3G footprint covers more than 90 percent of the population. Continuing investment by carriers means Canada will also have a world-leading 3.5G network.
• 22 million cell-phone subscribers (over 66 percent of the Canadian population) at end of 2009, expected to reach 30 million within five years.
• 75 percent of all Canadian households have a mobile phone.
• 50 percent of phone connections in Canada are wireless.
• Canadians send 100 million text messages per day.
Essential facts and stats about mobile Web:
• 21 percent of mobile consumers (or 4 million Canadians) use their mobile phones to browse the Web (Nielsen Online, June 2009).
• 53 percent of mobile users have an Internet-ready device, (Sympatico.ca [Bell Canada] survey, September 2009).
Mobile Marketing FAQ
Q. What is a keyword?
A. A Keyword is a unique term (letters and/or numbers) that people can use to communicate with you via a short code. TEXTit Communications’s short code is 54500. The basic idea is that a customer texts your KEYWORD and when they do so they are automatically added to your list of contacts.
Keywords are an extremely powerful tool when it comes to building a successful mobile marketing campaign. Interactive replies and two way communication can be possible. As soon as a customer opt’s in to your keyword they are giving you permission to send them information relevant to their interests.
Q. What is a text message?
A. A Text message is a short message that can be sent to and from a cellular phone. When someone says text, texting, or SMS, or if you see TXT in print, all of these are referring to text messages.
Q. What Is SMS?
A. SMS is an acronym for Short Message Service. It is a worldwide standard for communicating textually between cellular phones.
Q. Can everyone receive text messages?
A. Nearly every cellular phone in use in Canada (and the world) can receive text messages. Most wireless carriers include some text messaging in their standard plans.
Q. What does it cost for a consumer to receive a text message?
A. Some carriers do not charge their customers to receive text messages. Others include a certain number in their standard plans–these usually cost less than ten cents a message.
Q. How long can a text message be?
A. A standard text message is limited to 160 characters. Characters means letters, numbers, spaces, symbols and punctuation. Our system allows 130 characters plus the mandatory STOP message at the end.
Q. What is a short code?
A. A Short Code is similar to the address (URL) of a website. It is a unique location to send messages to, which all cellular carriers are aware of. You combine a Short Code with a Keyword to form a call-to-action address. An example would be: ‘Text KEYWORD to SHORTCODE to join our VIP invite list.’
Q. What does it mean to Opt-In?
A. To Opt-In is to join a list. This can be done by sending a text message containing your KEYWORD to our SHORTCODE, or by entering your mobile number into a web-based form. This action signifies that a customer has given you permission to send them a message.
Q. What does it mean to Opt-Out?
A. A subscriber Opts Out when they quit your list. Users can do this quickly and simply by replying to any text message you send them with the word STOP. Opt out instructions (ex: To unsubscribe text STOP {KEYWORD} to 54500)
Q. How do I access my TEXTit Communications account / Do I need any special software/hardware?
A. There is no special software or hardware to purchase or install you can access it anywhere and anytime you are online. Since TEXTit Communications’s platform is web-based, all you need to access our service is a computer with an internet connection and a web browser. We recommend Firefox or Internet Explorer for best user experience.
Q. How long does it take for my contacts to receive the messages that I send?
A. Messages are sent instantly and arrive within 1 – 2 minutes of you sending them. If a customer’s phone is turned off, or is in an area without coverage (such as inside an elevator), their carrier holds the message and delivers it as soon as the customer re-enters a coverage area.
Q. Is there a limit to how many messages I can send using TEXTit Communications?
A. There is no limit to how many messages you can send using our text messaging service. However, best practices indicate that you should not send more than one or two messages per week to your subscribers. More frequent messaging can result in high opt-out rates for your list.
Q. How much does TEXTit Communications cost?
A. You can choose from a variety of monthly packages to suit your budget and promotional needs. Estimate the number of alerts you’ll send per month and sign-up for that plan.
Q. Can I change my plan half way through the billing cycle?
A. No, each billing cycle is 30 days from the day of the month you sign-up. Additional outgoing messages will be charged the assigned rate.
Q. Can I upgrade/downgrade my account at the start of the next billing cycle?
A. Yes
Q. Do you require a credit check or company history?
A. No, but a valid credit card on file is required to keep the account active.
Q: Will my customers need to have a “smart phone” or PDA to text in answers to my text campaigns?
A: No, 99% of all cell phones on the market today feature SMS text message functionality. Smartphone users however, will have the ability to browse your custom webpages for html content and offers.
Q. What is W.A.P. and do you offer it?
A. W.A.P. stands for wireless application protocol. It is a commonly used as a web browser for small mobile devices such as cell phones. Yes, TEXTit Communications utilizes this technology so you can custom design and host your own mobile website or webpage.
Q: My customer base is affluent and a bit older. I really don’t think they are interested in ‘texting’ and I’m also not sure if they know how to send text messages. Wouldn’t you agree?
A: No. Actually, independent research shows that the popularity of SMS text as a communication medium has exploded worldwide across all age groups. Here are some recent statistics on usage of SMS texts and interaction with Short Codes:
82% of Americans between the ages of 18-24 now use SMS texts regularly
72% of Americans between the ages of 25-49 now use SMS texts regularly
53% of Americans engaging with Short Codes are 35 and older
Q: Is this a nationwide service and will my customers be able to send in text message replies from any Cellular Network?
A: Yes, TEXTit Communications has been provisioned and is live on all major Canadian Cellular networks.
Q: Isn’t Twitter just as simple and effective as SMS Text Message Marketing?
A: There is no denying the current popularity of Social Networking websites such as Twitter and Facebook. But, in order for you to interact or promote your business via Twitter you first have to rely on your customers to complete several steps before they are available to you to promote your business to them. Please see the page “Text Message Marketing vs Twitter” for a detailed comparasion.
Our services simply require a single opt-in – whether it’s answering a customer comment card or simply texting in to receive a coupon or discount offer. This is something that takes seconds and can be done via a single SMS text message from 99% of cell phones available on the marketplace today.
It should also be noted that due to the text message fees that Twitter pays wireless network operators, it is anticipated that Twitter will soon start charging for their service or begin adding 3rd party advertising to customer initiated Tweets and text messages.
Q: How often are my Mobile Marketing activities updated in the system?
A: Our system is real time and events such as opt-ins or survey results are displayed in the message inbox as they happen. For more information see our Live Monitoring feature.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the number of management employees I can provide access to the system?
A: No, you can configure as many users as you wish at no extra charge.
Q: Can I configure user rights or limit the amount of rights a specific employee or user has on the system?
A: Yes, user rights can be configured as part of the Account set-up process. As an example, you may only want to grant “view only” rights to certain users.
Q: Are targeted SMS promotional text messages similar to SPAM?
A: No, absolutely not. Users only have the option to send out targeted SMS text messages to customers who have “Opted In” and wish to receive further promotional messages from your business. TEXTit Communications adheres to the strict practices and standards published by the Mobile Marketing Association and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association.
Q: Will I be able to restrict the amount of opt-ins or survey responses that a user sends in via SMS text message over a certain time period?
A: Yes, clients can configure how many opt-ins they will allow over a customized time frame from a unique mobile phone number.
Q: Can I configure scheduled delivery or auto-reply messages with mobile coupons to customers who elect to opt in to a Mobile VIP Club or respond to a campaign blast?
A: Yes, you can configure and customize your own campaigns with scheduled or auto-reply messages and/or coupons directly from the Admin panel.
Q: How long does it take to get an account set up?
A: We can configure your new account and issue log-in credentials usually within one business day.
Additionally, if you already have a sales force that is already calling on different business verticals that may be perfect candidates for mobile marketing services you should contact us today.
A. A Keyword is a unique term (letters and/or numbers) that people can use to communicate with you via a short code. TEXTit Communications’s short code is 54500. The basic idea is that a customer texts your KEYWORD and when they do so they are automatically added to your list of contacts.
Keywords are an extremely powerful tool when it comes to building a successful mobile marketing campaign. Interactive replies and two way communication can be possible. As soon as a customer opt’s in to your keyword they are giving you permission to send them information relevant to their interests.
Q. What is a text message?
A. A Text message is a short message that can be sent to and from a cellular phone. When someone says text, texting, or SMS, or if you see TXT in print, all of these are referring to text messages.
Q. What Is SMS?
A. SMS is an acronym for Short Message Service. It is a worldwide standard for communicating textually between cellular phones.
Q. Can everyone receive text messages?
A. Nearly every cellular phone in use in Canada (and the world) can receive text messages. Most wireless carriers include some text messaging in their standard plans.
Q. What does it cost for a consumer to receive a text message?
A. Some carriers do not charge their customers to receive text messages. Others include a certain number in their standard plans–these usually cost less than ten cents a message.
Q. How long can a text message be?
A. A standard text message is limited to 160 characters. Characters means letters, numbers, spaces, symbols and punctuation. Our system allows 130 characters plus the mandatory STOP message at the end.
Q. What is a short code?
A. A Short Code is similar to the address (URL) of a website. It is a unique location to send messages to, which all cellular carriers are aware of. You combine a Short Code with a Keyword to form a call-to-action address. An example would be: ‘Text KEYWORD to SHORTCODE to join our VIP invite list.’
Q. What does it mean to Opt-In?
A. To Opt-In is to join a list. This can be done by sending a text message containing your KEYWORD to our SHORTCODE, or by entering your mobile number into a web-based form. This action signifies that a customer has given you permission to send them a message.
Q. What does it mean to Opt-Out?
A. A subscriber Opts Out when they quit your list. Users can do this quickly and simply by replying to any text message you send them with the word STOP. Opt out instructions (ex: To unsubscribe text STOP {KEYWORD} to 54500)
Q. How do I access my TEXTit Communications account / Do I need any special software/hardware?
A. There is no special software or hardware to purchase or install you can access it anywhere and anytime you are online. Since TEXTit Communications’s platform is web-based, all you need to access our service is a computer with an internet connection and a web browser. We recommend Firefox or Internet Explorer for best user experience.
Q. How long does it take for my contacts to receive the messages that I send?
A. Messages are sent instantly and arrive within 1 – 2 minutes of you sending them. If a customer’s phone is turned off, or is in an area without coverage (such as inside an elevator), their carrier holds the message and delivers it as soon as the customer re-enters a coverage area.
Q. Is there a limit to how many messages I can send using TEXTit Communications?
A. There is no limit to how many messages you can send using our text messaging service. However, best practices indicate that you should not send more than one or two messages per week to your subscribers. More frequent messaging can result in high opt-out rates for your list.
Q. How much does TEXTit Communications cost?
A. You can choose from a variety of monthly packages to suit your budget and promotional needs. Estimate the number of alerts you’ll send per month and sign-up for that plan.
Q. Can I change my plan half way through the billing cycle?
A. No, each billing cycle is 30 days from the day of the month you sign-up. Additional outgoing messages will be charged the assigned rate.
Q. Can I upgrade/downgrade my account at the start of the next billing cycle?
A. Yes
Q. Do you require a credit check or company history?
A. No, but a valid credit card on file is required to keep the account active.
Q: Will my customers need to have a “smart phone” or PDA to text in answers to my text campaigns?
A: No, 99% of all cell phones on the market today feature SMS text message functionality. Smartphone users however, will have the ability to browse your custom webpages for html content and offers.
Q. What is W.A.P. and do you offer it?
A. W.A.P. stands for wireless application protocol. It is a commonly used as a web browser for small mobile devices such as cell phones. Yes, TEXTit Communications utilizes this technology so you can custom design and host your own mobile website or webpage.
Q: My customer base is affluent and a bit older. I really don’t think they are interested in ‘texting’ and I’m also not sure if they know how to send text messages. Wouldn’t you agree?
A: No. Actually, independent research shows that the popularity of SMS text as a communication medium has exploded worldwide across all age groups. Here are some recent statistics on usage of SMS texts and interaction with Short Codes:
82% of Americans between the ages of 18-24 now use SMS texts regularly
72% of Americans between the ages of 25-49 now use SMS texts regularly
53% of Americans engaging with Short Codes are 35 and older
Q: Is this a nationwide service and will my customers be able to send in text message replies from any Cellular Network?
A: Yes, TEXTit Communications has been provisioned and is live on all major Canadian Cellular networks.
Q: Isn’t Twitter just as simple and effective as SMS Text Message Marketing?
A: There is no denying the current popularity of Social Networking websites such as Twitter and Facebook. But, in order for you to interact or promote your business via Twitter you first have to rely on your customers to complete several steps before they are available to you to promote your business to them. Please see the page “Text Message Marketing vs Twitter” for a detailed comparasion.
Our services simply require a single opt-in – whether it’s answering a customer comment card or simply texting in to receive a coupon or discount offer. This is something that takes seconds and can be done via a single SMS text message from 99% of cell phones available on the marketplace today.
It should also be noted that due to the text message fees that Twitter pays wireless network operators, it is anticipated that Twitter will soon start charging for their service or begin adding 3rd party advertising to customer initiated Tweets and text messages.
Q: How often are my Mobile Marketing activities updated in the system?
A: Our system is real time and events such as opt-ins or survey results are displayed in the message inbox as they happen. For more information see our Live Monitoring feature.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the number of management employees I can provide access to the system?
A: No, you can configure as many users as you wish at no extra charge.
Q: Can I configure user rights or limit the amount of rights a specific employee or user has on the system?
A: Yes, user rights can be configured as part of the Account set-up process. As an example, you may only want to grant “view only” rights to certain users.
Q: Are targeted SMS promotional text messages similar to SPAM?
A: No, absolutely not. Users only have the option to send out targeted SMS text messages to customers who have “Opted In” and wish to receive further promotional messages from your business. TEXTit Communications adheres to the strict practices and standards published by the Mobile Marketing Association and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association.
Q: Will I be able to restrict the amount of opt-ins or survey responses that a user sends in via SMS text message over a certain time period?
A: Yes, clients can configure how many opt-ins they will allow over a customized time frame from a unique mobile phone number.
Q: Can I configure scheduled delivery or auto-reply messages with mobile coupons to customers who elect to opt in to a Mobile VIP Club or respond to a campaign blast?
A: Yes, you can configure and customize your own campaigns with scheduled or auto-reply messages and/or coupons directly from the Admin panel.
Q: How long does it take to get an account set up?
A: We can configure your new account and issue log-in credentials usually within one business day.
Additionally, if you already have a sales force that is already calling on different business verticals that may be perfect candidates for mobile marketing services you should contact us today.
How Can You Use Mobile Marketing
I think the biggest hurdle most business owners have when it comes to mobile marketing is how it applies to their own business. So, I’ve decided to do a post on how mobile marketing might apply to your specific business. Keep in mind this is a very limited list but it may cause the light bulb to come on.
Restaurants
A restaurant owner gives out 4×4 cards that encourage customers to become part of their loyalty program by texting in a keyword (i.e. Earls) to 70734. The incentive to “opt in” to the loyalty program is the customer gets a free appetizer or dessert the next time they come. Now the owner now has the phone number and can easily communicate with the customer and send them coupons or specials thus boosting sales.
Or a busy restaurant owner wants to solve the problem of making their customers wait for long periods of time to get a table. So they use the My Mobile Text Reminder System to alert customers when their table is ready. The process is simple. Instead of the customer hanging around for 45 minutes they simply give the hostess their cell phone number, the hostess quickly enters it into the MMTRS and as soon as the table is ready the hostess clicks a button which sends a pre-written text message to the customer letting them know the table is ready. The customer can then text back in REAL TIME and say something like, “be there in 5″. Obviously, the owner is also building a list of numbers which he can communicate to in the future.
Video Rental Store
A video rental store advertises the text message campaign Text “video” to 70734 and as reward for joining customers get the next rental free of charge by showing the confirmation message they have received. The store sends out information about new releases to customers once or twice a week at 4 pm to remind them to pick up the videos on the way home from work.
Dental Clinic
A dental clinic wanted to decrease “no shows” and increase the number of people who get their teeth cleaned or checked during the year. The clinic easily implemented MMTRS and taught their administrators to use it. Now all appointments were booked using the text to reminder system and the administrator could communicate in real time to the customer to remind them of their appointment. Plus, the system automatically sent out text alerts 6 months later reminding them to book an appointment to get their teeth cleaned. The dental clinic’s revenue soared up 25% from the previous year!
Massage Therapy Clinic
A massage studio wanted to solve the problem of people canceling the last minute or people who just never bother to show up. Since the massage therapist it is a huge expense to the business. So, the massage studio decided to start a loyalty program where they offered a 20% discount if the customer texted “massage” to 70734. The customers were delighted to get a discount and be part of the loyalty program but the really powerful part is the business owner now could instantly text their customers when there was a no show or cancellation and say something like, “40% off massage if you come in 20 minutes”. The result is it increased profits and made a lot of customers very happy.
Car Dealership
A car dealership wanted to make it easier for customers who were passing by to browse through their inventory. So, they advertised to text the word “car” to 70734. The dealership had it set up so that the potential customer would receive an immediate text back with some info and a link to their mobile website where they could browse the inventory. The bonus is the dealership now had a growing list of people interested in buying cars and could now easily communicate with them by sending offers, deals, promotions, etc.
Retail Store
A retail store offers customers 10% off at the counter (point of sale) for customers who join their loyalty program by texting “shirt” to 70734. The text call to action is also advertised on store receipts. The store sends text marketing messages to customers just before lunch time. This results in a significant sales increase. The store informs customers about special events and extra discounts for members of their loyalty program.
Hotel Chain
A hotel chain wants to increase customer loyalty. Everyone knows that people forget their hotel loyalty cards (or they don’t apply for them) so what’s the solution? You simply ask the customer if they want to join your “cardless” loyalty program and by doing so will be sent discounts and promotions. Also, you can now make the stay more personal by sending a “thank you” text upon leaving.
Coffee Shops
A favorite coffee shop had a booming business Monday-Friday with customers coming in for their morning coffee and pastries, as well as a strong lunch crowd. They were looking for a way to boost their Saturday morning sales, as they were very low due to the loss of their morning “work crowd”. They created a campaign offering $1 off a large gourmet coffee by asking customers to text “CAFENOW” to a shortcode. They advertised the offer in their newspaper ad, a coupon magazine, on their website and in their shop. After 5 weeks, they had 300 customers in their database and sent out an offer to receive a free small gourmet coffee with the purchase of a pastry on Saturday morning only. The first week, they had a 16% response rate and the second week they had an incredible 26% response rate. They continued different offers for Saturdays and ended up increasing their Saturday sales by and average of 60%.
Radio Stations
An Irish radio station wanted to interact with its audience with an opinion poll. At every news bulletin 98FM broadcast, a shortcode number was promoted to which listeners could send, via text message, their opinion about a nominated news topic.
Participants merely sent a “yes/no” response and then received a response inviting people to send further comments. Radio station staff then had access to live statistics via a special web page.
Corporate Competition
A financial brokerage company wanted to run an in-house competition for its brokers. Each week every broker was sent a personalized Text Message detailing where they were on a leader board for financial product sales. This appealed to the competitive spirit of the brokers who were in the running for weekly prizes and a grand prize.
Product Packaging
Starburst’s “More Juice More Burst” campaign looks to engage teens by using their cell phones to text a unique promotional short code found under specially marked packs of Starburst Fruit Chews.
Using the code J-U-I-C-Y (58429) across any cell phone carrier, and online at starburst.com, users can find out instantly via a return message if they.ve won juiced-up technology prizes like a 42-inch flat-screen TV, i-Pod Photo and more. The campaign ran through Sept. 30, 2005.
With more than 60 million on-pack impressions, the Starburst Brand More Juice for More Burst contest was the largest short-code, cross-carrier campaign for a consumer product goods company in U.S. history. Using packaging to drive the promotion, the company reports that online daily visits had nearly doubled since its April debut. Text messaging has accounted for 40 percent more traffic than anticipated.
Restaurants
A restaurant owner gives out 4×4 cards that encourage customers to become part of their loyalty program by texting in a keyword (i.e. Earls) to 70734. The incentive to “opt in” to the loyalty program is the customer gets a free appetizer or dessert the next time they come. Now the owner now has the phone number and can easily communicate with the customer and send them coupons or specials thus boosting sales.
Or a busy restaurant owner wants to solve the problem of making their customers wait for long periods of time to get a table. So they use the My Mobile Text Reminder System to alert customers when their table is ready. The process is simple. Instead of the customer hanging around for 45 minutes they simply give the hostess their cell phone number, the hostess quickly enters it into the MMTRS and as soon as the table is ready the hostess clicks a button which sends a pre-written text message to the customer letting them know the table is ready. The customer can then text back in REAL TIME and say something like, “be there in 5″. Obviously, the owner is also building a list of numbers which he can communicate to in the future.
Video Rental Store
A video rental store advertises the text message campaign Text “video” to 70734 and as reward for joining customers get the next rental free of charge by showing the confirmation message they have received. The store sends out information about new releases to customers once or twice a week at 4 pm to remind them to pick up the videos on the way home from work.
Dental Clinic
A dental clinic wanted to decrease “no shows” and increase the number of people who get their teeth cleaned or checked during the year. The clinic easily implemented MMTRS and taught their administrators to use it. Now all appointments were booked using the text to reminder system and the administrator could communicate in real time to the customer to remind them of their appointment. Plus, the system automatically sent out text alerts 6 months later reminding them to book an appointment to get their teeth cleaned. The dental clinic’s revenue soared up 25% from the previous year!
Massage Therapy Clinic
A massage studio wanted to solve the problem of people canceling the last minute or people who just never bother to show up. Since the massage therapist it is a huge expense to the business. So, the massage studio decided to start a loyalty program where they offered a 20% discount if the customer texted “massage” to 70734. The customers were delighted to get a discount and be part of the loyalty program but the really powerful part is the business owner now could instantly text their customers when there was a no show or cancellation and say something like, “40% off massage if you come in 20 minutes”. The result is it increased profits and made a lot of customers very happy.
Car Dealership
A car dealership wanted to make it easier for customers who were passing by to browse through their inventory. So, they advertised to text the word “car” to 70734. The dealership had it set up so that the potential customer would receive an immediate text back with some info and a link to their mobile website where they could browse the inventory. The bonus is the dealership now had a growing list of people interested in buying cars and could now easily communicate with them by sending offers, deals, promotions, etc.
Retail Store
A retail store offers customers 10% off at the counter (point of sale) for customers who join their loyalty program by texting “shirt” to 70734. The text call to action is also advertised on store receipts. The store sends text marketing messages to customers just before lunch time. This results in a significant sales increase. The store informs customers about special events and extra discounts for members of their loyalty program.
Hotel Chain
A hotel chain wants to increase customer loyalty. Everyone knows that people forget their hotel loyalty cards (or they don’t apply for them) so what’s the solution? You simply ask the customer if they want to join your “cardless” loyalty program and by doing so will be sent discounts and promotions. Also, you can now make the stay more personal by sending a “thank you” text upon leaving.
Coffee Shops
A favorite coffee shop had a booming business Monday-Friday with customers coming in for their morning coffee and pastries, as well as a strong lunch crowd. They were looking for a way to boost their Saturday morning sales, as they were very low due to the loss of their morning “work crowd”. They created a campaign offering $1 off a large gourmet coffee by asking customers to text “CAFENOW” to a shortcode. They advertised the offer in their newspaper ad, a coupon magazine, on their website and in their shop. After 5 weeks, they had 300 customers in their database and sent out an offer to receive a free small gourmet coffee with the purchase of a pastry on Saturday morning only. The first week, they had a 16% response rate and the second week they had an incredible 26% response rate. They continued different offers for Saturdays and ended up increasing their Saturday sales by and average of 60%.
Radio Stations
An Irish radio station wanted to interact with its audience with an opinion poll. At every news bulletin 98FM broadcast, a shortcode number was promoted to which listeners could send, via text message, their opinion about a nominated news topic.
Participants merely sent a “yes/no” response and then received a response inviting people to send further comments. Radio station staff then had access to live statistics via a special web page.
Corporate Competition
A financial brokerage company wanted to run an in-house competition for its brokers. Each week every broker was sent a personalized Text Message detailing where they were on a leader board for financial product sales. This appealed to the competitive spirit of the brokers who were in the running for weekly prizes and a grand prize.
Product Packaging
Starburst’s “More Juice More Burst” campaign looks to engage teens by using their cell phones to text a unique promotional short code found under specially marked packs of Starburst Fruit Chews.
Using the code J-U-I-C-Y (58429) across any cell phone carrier, and online at starburst.com, users can find out instantly via a return message if they.ve won juiced-up technology prizes like a 42-inch flat-screen TV, i-Pod Photo and more. The campaign ran through Sept. 30, 2005.
With more than 60 million on-pack impressions, the Starburst Brand More Juice for More Burst contest was the largest short-code, cross-carrier campaign for a consumer product goods company in U.S. history. Using packaging to drive the promotion, the company reports that online daily visits had nearly doubled since its April debut. Text messaging has accounted for 40 percent more traffic than anticipated.
Do You Have a Mobile Website
There are around 5 billion mobile users and only 1.3 billion Internet users. That means there is roughly 5 times the amount of mobile users than straight Internet users!
Just take a moment and think of the trend that is taking place right now. More and more people are using their mobile phone as an actual computer! They are surfing the Internet, using Google to find things, socializing on Facebook… and all from their cell phone!
If Google’s number one focus is on mobile than as a business owner I would highly suggest you start implementing strategies that are mobile related. In about three years if you aren’t 100% mobile in your business than you will be WAY BEHIND. The business owners who see the trend and start doing what is necessary now will capture the largest market share.
So what exactly do you need to do to start implementing mobile strategies into your business?
Actually, it’s not as hard as you might think.
Visit TEXTit today
Just take a moment and think of the trend that is taking place right now. More and more people are using their mobile phone as an actual computer! They are surfing the Internet, using Google to find things, socializing on Facebook… and all from their cell phone!
If Google’s number one focus is on mobile than as a business owner I would highly suggest you start implementing strategies that are mobile related. In about three years if you aren’t 100% mobile in your business than you will be WAY BEHIND. The business owners who see the trend and start doing what is necessary now will capture the largest market share.
So what exactly do you need to do to start implementing mobile strategies into your business?
Actually, it’s not as hard as you might think.
Visit TEXTit today
How mobile Marketing?
Mobile marketing may not be understood by many. It is critical you have a professional assist you in implementing a mobile marketing strategy.
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J2XYTTCS9RMA
Mobile Marketing Technology
Mobile Marketing Technology – The iphone app
Obviously the development of iPhone applications is increasing and nearly as popular as the device itself. With the iTunes app store boasting over 75,000 apps we receive many inquiries from brands, ad agencies, and companies that are interested in utilizing a mobile marketing company to assist them throughout this process. As always, we encourage our clients and prospects to consider their business, product, or service and we help them evaluate how those should be translated into the mobile space. Sometimes an app makes perfect sense, other times it does not.
Not all iPhone Apps are created equal.
I am not going to get into the details on whether or not you should develop an iPhone application for your business. I do not know your business well enough to make this recommendation, however I would be happy to consult with you and your team. I am writing this today because I think there is a misconception on what is involved in developing a successful iPhone app and the investment necessary to have a positive impact in your business. I do think it is important to consider that not all apps are created equally. As I mentioned, due to the ever increasing number of apps, we receive many inquiries about app development. I think Apple’s ad campaigns have brain washed us to think that downloading an app to an iPhone is simple and inexpensive therefore developing an app should be as well. This is not the case. It it important to keep in mind that many more iPhone Apps have a 3 star (out of 5) or less user rating than those that have a 3 star or higher rating. I see more and more of these plug and play websites that offer iPhone app solutions at bargain basement prices that are trying to lure us into our desires to build an iPhone app. I won’t hold back when I tell you that these solutions are absolute garbage. These solutions do not provide any valuable research into your brand, products, or service therefore research gathering, requirement planning, or process documentation is not included in your price. They do not understand your business, marketing, advertising, and sales initiatives nor do they care to. They see a market to turn and burn applications but are not delivering you a quality app that is sure to get destroyed by user ratings and ulitmately never downloaded.
Be Prepared to Invest your business.
So, I have totally trashed the guys that aren’t doing anything for you except taking your money and giving you garbage in return, what is my solution? It is simple, be prepared to invest in your business.
iPhone app development projects vary broadly in scope and pricing but I think you will find that a reputable mobile marketing company or software development company might make you raise your eyebrows a bit when they mention the price if are exploring this possibility for the first time. If you simply “want” an iPhone app and don’t have a plan surrounding it’s release, marketing, etc., save your money because users will bash it, no one will download it, and you once that happens your app will never be revived unless you continue to allocate resources for ongoing development. One of the great things about iPhone applications is that you have 75,000 case studies to research.
Find out what your competitors are doing and more importantly do a
user review analysis of applications that are within your industry.
Find out what users like, what they don’t like. After all, apps live and die by the opinion and engagement of the consumer. Do the homework, gather the information, formulate a plan, document everything, develop, don’t forget the marketing/advertising plan surrounding the app, deploy and enjoy.
Take your business mobile with TEXTit Communications
Obviously the development of iPhone applications is increasing and nearly as popular as the device itself. With the iTunes app store boasting over 75,000 apps we receive many inquiries from brands, ad agencies, and companies that are interested in utilizing a mobile marketing company to assist them throughout this process. As always, we encourage our clients and prospects to consider their business, product, or service and we help them evaluate how those should be translated into the mobile space. Sometimes an app makes perfect sense, other times it does not.
Not all iPhone Apps are created equal.
I am not going to get into the details on whether or not you should develop an iPhone application for your business. I do not know your business well enough to make this recommendation, however I would be happy to consult with you and your team. I am writing this today because I think there is a misconception on what is involved in developing a successful iPhone app and the investment necessary to have a positive impact in your business. I do think it is important to consider that not all apps are created equally. As I mentioned, due to the ever increasing number of apps, we receive many inquiries about app development. I think Apple’s ad campaigns have brain washed us to think that downloading an app to an iPhone is simple and inexpensive therefore developing an app should be as well. This is not the case. It it important to keep in mind that many more iPhone Apps have a 3 star (out of 5) or less user rating than those that have a 3 star or higher rating. I see more and more of these plug and play websites that offer iPhone app solutions at bargain basement prices that are trying to lure us into our desires to build an iPhone app. I won’t hold back when I tell you that these solutions are absolute garbage. These solutions do not provide any valuable research into your brand, products, or service therefore research gathering, requirement planning, or process documentation is not included in your price. They do not understand your business, marketing, advertising, and sales initiatives nor do they care to. They see a market to turn and burn applications but are not delivering you a quality app that is sure to get destroyed by user ratings and ulitmately never downloaded.
Be Prepared to Invest your business.
So, I have totally trashed the guys that aren’t doing anything for you except taking your money and giving you garbage in return, what is my solution? It is simple, be prepared to invest in your business.
iPhone app development projects vary broadly in scope and pricing but I think you will find that a reputable mobile marketing company or software development company might make you raise your eyebrows a bit when they mention the price if are exploring this possibility for the first time. If you simply “want” an iPhone app and don’t have a plan surrounding it’s release, marketing, etc., save your money because users will bash it, no one will download it, and you once that happens your app will never be revived unless you continue to allocate resources for ongoing development. One of the great things about iPhone applications is that you have 75,000 case studies to research.
Find out what your competitors are doing and more importantly do a
user review analysis of applications that are within your industry.
Find out what users like, what they don’t like. After all, apps live and die by the opinion and engagement of the consumer. Do the homework, gather the information, formulate a plan, document everything, develop, don’t forget the marketing/advertising plan surrounding the app, deploy and enjoy.
Take your business mobile with TEXTit Communications
SMS Marketing – Mobile Solutions | TEXTit
SMS marketing and advertising is the best form of marketing in the 21 century. People are having a hard time finding out how to utilize this service for their business, and the pricing and cost involved. TEXTit has pricing that ranges from $89.99 and month to $10,000 or more per month so they have packages for all campaigns and businesses large or small.
Get Started
Get Started
Short Code | Mobile SMS Marketing – Help?
So, you want to get a short code. Here is the scoop on what to expect, you may not need your own.
What exactly is a short code anyway?
If you haven’t seen these 4, 5, and 6 digit numbers bouncing across your TV screen, heard them radiating from your speakers, or seen them plastered on billboards as you wizz by, well…quite honestly, you don’t get out too much. It’s obvious these codes are everywhere as mobile marketing is a booming industry even in the midst of a challenging economy. So, what exactly are they and how do you get one?
Here comes a bit of telecom tech talk. Don’t be afraid, it’s not that complicated.
A short code is a short number, sometimes referred to as a short telephone number, which can be used to address SMS (short message service, ie text message) or MMS (multimedia message service, ie ringtones, downloads, etc.) from a mobile phone. Globally short codes vary from 3 to 6 digits but in the U.S. we primarily use 4, 5, and 6 digits. 4 digit short codes are largely reserved for carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, etc). These 4 digit codes are specific to a carrier and will only work on a specific carrier network. 5 and 6 digit short codes are most often used by aggregators such as MX Telecom and content providers such as TEXTit. These codes are certified on behalf of content providers by the carriers and used to deliver content from the provider cross-carrier.
Short Codes are leased via the CSCA (Common Short Code Administration). Cost for leasing a code is either $500/mo or $1000/ mo. The $1000/mo variety is called a vanity code because you choose the sequence of the 5 or 6 digit numbers from available codes. Non vanity codes, the $500/mo variety, are automatically assigned to you by the CSCA.
Examples of a vanity code: 444888, 555999, 12345
Examples of a non-vanity code: 76398, 23681, 795024
Once a code is leased it must then be certified by the carriers to deliver content across their network. To be honest the certification process can be a bit daunting and I encourage all to utilize a top tier aggregator or content provider to assist you. There will be an additional investment for certification usually starting at $2000, but again, I encourage all to utilize telecom professionals that understand this process.
Lastly, there is the issue of connectivity. It is important to note that once a code is leased and certified you must be connected to the carriers via an aggregator and additional ongoing investment is necessary. Monthly connectivity costs vary widely from aggregators and content providers based on the type of service(s) you want to offer.
So, in a nutshell, what can you expect? To manage a short code you will need to:
1. Lease it from the CSCA
2. Certifiy it with the carriers
3. Connect it to carrier networks via an aggregator or content provider
Wow, that seems like too much effort and investment. If that is what you are thinking, you are still in luck. Most all content providers have certified, cross-carrier short codes that you can utilize in your business. TEXTit and many other reputable content providers have helped countless businesses both big and small enter into the mobile age. Whether you need an affordable basic business package or a specific custom application there is a solution for you. Join the revolution and mobilize your business today.
More Info Here
What exactly is a short code anyway?
If you haven’t seen these 4, 5, and 6 digit numbers bouncing across your TV screen, heard them radiating from your speakers, or seen them plastered on billboards as you wizz by, well…quite honestly, you don’t get out too much. It’s obvious these codes are everywhere as mobile marketing is a booming industry even in the midst of a challenging economy. So, what exactly are they and how do you get one?
Here comes a bit of telecom tech talk. Don’t be afraid, it’s not that complicated.
A short code is a short number, sometimes referred to as a short telephone number, which can be used to address SMS (short message service, ie text message) or MMS (multimedia message service, ie ringtones, downloads, etc.) from a mobile phone. Globally short codes vary from 3 to 6 digits but in the U.S. we primarily use 4, 5, and 6 digits. 4 digit short codes are largely reserved for carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, etc). These 4 digit codes are specific to a carrier and will only work on a specific carrier network. 5 and 6 digit short codes are most often used by aggregators such as MX Telecom and content providers such as TEXTit. These codes are certified on behalf of content providers by the carriers and used to deliver content from the provider cross-carrier.
Short Codes are leased via the CSCA (Common Short Code Administration). Cost for leasing a code is either $500/mo or $1000/ mo. The $1000/mo variety is called a vanity code because you choose the sequence of the 5 or 6 digit numbers from available codes. Non vanity codes, the $500/mo variety, are automatically assigned to you by the CSCA.
Examples of a vanity code: 444888, 555999, 12345
Examples of a non-vanity code: 76398, 23681, 795024
Once a code is leased it must then be certified by the carriers to deliver content across their network. To be honest the certification process can be a bit daunting and I encourage all to utilize a top tier aggregator or content provider to assist you. There will be an additional investment for certification usually starting at $2000, but again, I encourage all to utilize telecom professionals that understand this process.
Lastly, there is the issue of connectivity. It is important to note that once a code is leased and certified you must be connected to the carriers via an aggregator and additional ongoing investment is necessary. Monthly connectivity costs vary widely from aggregators and content providers based on the type of service(s) you want to offer.
So, in a nutshell, what can you expect? To manage a short code you will need to:
1. Lease it from the CSCA
2. Certifiy it with the carriers
3. Connect it to carrier networks via an aggregator or content provider
Wow, that seems like too much effort and investment. If that is what you are thinking, you are still in luck. Most all content providers have certified, cross-carrier short codes that you can utilize in your business. TEXTit and many other reputable content providers have helped countless businesses both big and small enter into the mobile age. Whether you need an affordable basic business package or a specific custom application there is a solution for you. Join the revolution and mobilize your business today.
More Info Here
Beyond The Opt-In
They Replied YES, Now What?
Very often I hear the following, “oh yes, we do texting”, which immediately tells me that mobile marketing was most likely on a check list of initiatives to be crossed off for the year. When this is the case the initiative has poor, if any strategy, prospects are not being reached, and tens’ to hundreds’ of thousands of opt-in subscribers are starving for some attention. We utilize many resources to glean this opt-in list, now that we have it, what do we do?
Honor that space
The first thing I always tell TEXTit clients when building mobile marketing strategy is this, “Remember, you and I have a mobile phone in our pocket, purse, or backpack and the last thing we want it to become is a spam device”. So, we have a responsiblity to those we are reaching to honor this very coveted, private space. There are many statistics, and I have made some interesting observations myself, about the demographics of mobile users and the frequency in which mobile marketing should occur. We will dive into the demographic conversation on another day. The bottom line is this, we have a responsibility when reaching our users, prospects, opt-ins. If we do not honor that space they will simply ignore us, or for those of us that “do texting”, they will simply reply STOP and we have to start from scratch to reach them again.
It isn’t all about the numbers anymore
I think it very important to consider the traditional, quantitative CPM model of advertising and marketing is changing because consumers are more and more given the opportunity to choose how they will participate with our message. Mobile marketing is introducing a qualitative one to one interaction between our brand, product, or services and our prospect. I often use this analogy when discussing mobile and ask this question; “what is more valuable to us as marketers, an online, print, or outdoor ad that 1000 people might be able to tell you what the predominant color of the ad and nothing else, or 1 person interacting with your brand on their mobile device?”
What’s the game plan
As I mentioned earlier, so very often we find businesses sticking their toe in the water and not committing when it comes to mobile marketing. Any good coach is not only going to show up to the game, but have a solid game plan, the right players to execute, and ulitmately be a winner. Don’t be scared, mobile isn’t that new anymore even though it may be new to your business. TEXTit and many other reputable mobile marketing companies have done hundreds of thousands of mobile marketing campaigns and we are here to help you navigate a new marketing and advertising channel. We know what works and what does not. The most important thing is to plan and invest in the strategy. All mobile companies can set-up a mobile campaign. Be sure and work with the mobile marketing companies that want to integrate mobile into your business and can offer sound strategy on how do to so. Who do we want to reach today, tomorrow, and next year? Once we reach them how do we continue to engage them creatively while we “honor that space” in turn increasing their engagement with our brands, products, and services?
Very often I hear the following, “oh yes, we do texting”, which immediately tells me that mobile marketing was most likely on a check list of initiatives to be crossed off for the year. When this is the case the initiative has poor, if any strategy, prospects are not being reached, and tens’ to hundreds’ of thousands of opt-in subscribers are starving for some attention. We utilize many resources to glean this opt-in list, now that we have it, what do we do?
Honor that space
The first thing I always tell TEXTit clients when building mobile marketing strategy is this, “Remember, you and I have a mobile phone in our pocket, purse, or backpack and the last thing we want it to become is a spam device”. So, we have a responsiblity to those we are reaching to honor this very coveted, private space. There are many statistics, and I have made some interesting observations myself, about the demographics of mobile users and the frequency in which mobile marketing should occur. We will dive into the demographic conversation on another day. The bottom line is this, we have a responsibility when reaching our users, prospects, opt-ins. If we do not honor that space they will simply ignore us, or for those of us that “do texting”, they will simply reply STOP and we have to start from scratch to reach them again.
It isn’t all about the numbers anymore
I think it very important to consider the traditional, quantitative CPM model of advertising and marketing is changing because consumers are more and more given the opportunity to choose how they will participate with our message. Mobile marketing is introducing a qualitative one to one interaction between our brand, product, or services and our prospect. I often use this analogy when discussing mobile and ask this question; “what is more valuable to us as marketers, an online, print, or outdoor ad that 1000 people might be able to tell you what the predominant color of the ad and nothing else, or 1 person interacting with your brand on their mobile device?”
What’s the game plan
As I mentioned earlier, so very often we find businesses sticking their toe in the water and not committing when it comes to mobile marketing. Any good coach is not only going to show up to the game, but have a solid game plan, the right players to execute, and ulitmately be a winner. Don’t be scared, mobile isn’t that new anymore even though it may be new to your business. TEXTit and many other reputable mobile marketing companies have done hundreds of thousands of mobile marketing campaigns and we are here to help you navigate a new marketing and advertising channel. We know what works and what does not. The most important thing is to plan and invest in the strategy. All mobile companies can set-up a mobile campaign. Be sure and work with the mobile marketing companies that want to integrate mobile into your business and can offer sound strategy on how do to so. Who do we want to reach today, tomorrow, and next year? Once we reach them how do we continue to engage them creatively while we “honor that space” in turn increasing their engagement with our brands, products, and services?
Mobile Marketing Technology
Is Mobile Marketing Right For Your Company?
Is you business a part of the SMS Marketing Revolution?
Ask yourself this one question, and we will see if mobile is right for your business. Do I advertise? If your answer is yes Mobile Marketing will help tremendously. Mobile Advertising will impact two important parts of your marketing and advertising mix. First it will enhance all of your current media. Placing a text code on you print, billboard, TV and within your radio ads will let your track your media, and perform ongoing marketing to people after their initial impression with your current media. Second it will generate huge amounts of money for your business. The current trend is with every message sent to a user there is a 10% redemption rate. A great example is show when a local pizza eatery placed a text code on a billboard and issued up to 5000 SMS coupon. The pizza company redeemed 2587 SMS text coupons in their first six months. This return cost them about 289.99 a month. If they made only 1 dollar per visit they would have cleared $2587.00. This is a nice return for a local pizza restaurant.
Is you business a part of the SMS Marketing Revolution?
Ask yourself this one question, and we will see if mobile is right for your business. Do I advertise? If your answer is yes Mobile Marketing will help tremendously. Mobile Advertising will impact two important parts of your marketing and advertising mix. First it will enhance all of your current media. Placing a text code on you print, billboard, TV and within your radio ads will let your track your media, and perform ongoing marketing to people after their initial impression with your current media. Second it will generate huge amounts of money for your business. The current trend is with every message sent to a user there is a 10% redemption rate. A great example is show when a local pizza eatery placed a text code on a billboard and issued up to 5000 SMS coupon. The pizza company redeemed 2587 SMS text coupons in their first six months. This return cost them about 289.99 a month. If they made only 1 dollar per visit they would have cleared $2587.00. This is a nice return for a local pizza restaurant.
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