Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an SMS?
An SMS (Short Message Service) is a text message and can be sent and/or received on a cell phone.

Q: Can my phone receive text messages?
Almost all cell phones are capable of receiving text messages.

Q: What is the advantage of using text messaging advertising?
Most people carry their cell phones on them at all times. Unlike emails where it could be a few days before they read them (if at all), they will get the text message instantly.

Q: Am I required to sign a monthly contract?
We do not require any contracts.

Q: Do you charge for incoming text messages?
No, we will not charge you for incoming text messages.

Q: Are there are any fees for receiving the SMS messages?
Not from us. And most people have text messaging plans. However, it depends on the individual plan the recipient has, as well as the provider.

Q: How many characters may I include in a text message?
A standard text message is limited to 160 characters and we strongly recommend keeping all messages limited to one standard text message.

Q: How long does it take to deliver a text message?
Text messages are almost always delivered instantly. However, if the recipient has their phone turned off or is out of their service area, there will be obvious delays.

Q: Can I receive replies to the group text messages that I send?
Yes, we will email them to you.

Q: What is a Keyword?
A Keyword is your own personal term that your audience will text to join.

Q: Can I have any Keyword I want? Are there any limitations?
As long as the Keyword is appropriate and not already taken, you may select any Keyword you desire. However, we recommend keeping them simple and relevant so they are easy to remember.

Q: What is a Mobile Marketing Opt-In?
In order to send out a text message, you must first get someone’s permission. This can be happen 1 of 2 ways. The user may text your Keyword to the short code and they will be set-up, or they can sign-up online.

Q: What if someone wants to stop receiving texts?
Users can stop, or Opt-Out, at any time by replying STOP to any message they receive.

Q: Do I need to posses any technical knowledge/skills?
No. Our SMS messaging software is designed to be simple. You can log on and send messages from any computer at any time.

Q: What equipment will I need?
All you need is a computer and an internet connection.

Q: Are there any geographical boundaries?
Our services are available throughout the United States and Canada, providing the recipient has a signal/service at their location.

Q: Is my list of contacts secure? How do you protect my privacy?
Yes, our software stores your contact list in an encrypted data base.

Q: Do I need to know the provider of my contacts?
No, we can send messages to any provider.

Q: Can I collect numbers on my website?
Yes. We provide you with an HTML signup widget that you can place on your website, Facebook page and email blasts.

Q: How do I upload my contacts?
You may upload your contacts in three formats: As an excel file, as a CSV file, or as a text file.

Q: Do you have a program for advertising agencies?
Yes. Please call our office and ask about our special rates for advertising agencies.