FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Short Code?
A shortcode is a 5-6 digit number that allows customers to interact with businesses via text messaging. Similar to a cell phone number, commonly referred to as a long code, the shortcode gives businesses the ability to use a commercially acceptable channel to interact with today’s mobile customers.
What is a Keyword?
Keywords are used in conjunction with a short code to allow users to connect with business. The keyword is typically a word or abbreviation that is sent to a short code and is connected with a campaign.
Example: Text KEYWORD to SHORTCODE.
Are Keywords case sensitive?
No. Keywords are not case sensitive (i.e. both keywords Pizza and pizza are recognized as the same keyword). Therefore, only one variation of the keyword is needs to be assigned to a campaign.
What is SMS?
SMS is Short Message Service – commonly referred to as a Text Message. In the US, the current limit is approximately 160 characters in length and can vary by device and carrier.
Are there any charges for texting a Keyword?
Yes, Standard Text Messaging and other charges may apply per your service plan. Please check with your wireless carrier regarding the cost of sending and receiving text messages from your mobile phone. MSG & Data Rates May Apply.
Which wireless carriers are supported?
In the US, carriers include but not limited to: Alltel, ATT Wireless, Cellular One Dobson, Cincinnati Bell, Nextel, Sprint, T-Mobile®, U.S. Cellular®, Verizon Wireless and other carriers upon their approval.
How do customers opt-in (signup)?
Customers can sign-up or opt-in to a campaign by sending a text message with the KEYWORD to the SHORTCODE.
How do customers opt-out? How do customers unsubscribe from a campaign?
You may unsubscribe at any time by sending STOP or “STOP keyword” to the short code.
EXAMPLE: Text the words "STOP PIZZA" to SHORTCODE to opt-out and stop all future messages from the PIZZA campaign.
To remove yourself from all campaigns, Text STOP ALL to the short code.
How is mobile marketing regulated?
The Mobile Marketing Association (MMA) is a self-regulating group with participants from all major carriers who create and enforce Best Practices for Mobile Marketing. A current copy of these best practices can be found here. (http://mmaglobal.com/).
Do people consider Mobile Marketing SPAM?
No. Mobile marketing, by carrier guidelines, is entirely permission-based which means that subscribers truly want to hear from you. The recent survey results shows that most messages are read and people felt positive receiving those messages.
Are customers annoyed with Mobile Marketing?
Interested customers must opt-in (sign up) to receive promotional messages. When they opt-in to a campaign, they are also presented with the ability to opt-out when they are no longer interested. This keeps the customer in control of all mobile marketing campaigns.
Wireless carriers maintain a very strict policy regarding unsolicited messages. Campaigns are required to be 100% opt-in or permission based – there is no exception to the rules.
How much is a customer charged to receive a text message?
Customers are charged Standard Text Messaging rates per their cell phone plan. What that means is that a message counts against their text message plan (if they have one) or incur the standard text message rate per their cell phone plan. MSG & DATA Rates May Apply.