Using Short Codes for SMS Marketing Campaigns

Mobile marketing is one of the fastest-growing segments in the marketing industry.  The use of cell phones to participate in promotional programs is increasing dramatically, as more and more real-life results demonstrate and document the effectiveness of this medium.

A key contributor to the success of SMS marketing is the adoption of the Common Short Code (CSC) by wireless carriers.  A short code is a five or six-digit number that is assigned by the Common Short Code Administration (CSCA). Once assigned, a short code is common across all wireless carriers, and identifies the application that is associated with that number.  One widely known example of short code usage is the contestant voting on, “American Idol”.  Using short codes for SMS marketing programs simplifies, and broadens the reach of any promotion, doing away with the need for more limited and much less effective methods of capturing participants.

Opting into a promotion is simple, and immediate, when using a short code to enroll.  For example, a restaurant might have signage in its establishment, as well as wording on its register receipts, stating; “Text ‘ribs’ to 12345 to receive meal and drink specials on your cell phone”.  Patrons, at their convenience, use their cell phone to text in, receive a confirming text message; that’s it, they’re now enrolled into the restaurant’s program, ready to receive money-saving offers.

Using short code marketing programs guarantees virtually 100% text message deliverability.  Participants can opt out of any program at will, simply by texting an industry-accepted keyword, such as “stop” to the short code.  No other medium can provide such ease-of-use, immediacy, and effectiveness.

If you’re ready to implement your own short code SMS marketing program, MTC will help you to get started.  With its aggregator partners, MTC will assist you in obtaining your short code.  If you require your own private short code, MTC will also guide you through the process of carrier approval.  MTC can also provide “shared” short codes, which dramatically lower the cost and lead time for starting your marketing campaign.

Contact us today at 630-897-6448 or fill out the form below to get more information on our Mobile Marketing strategies.