So, you’ve finally decided to give text message marketing a try but got confused between an SMS website and a downloadable SMS software?
The basic features that may be available in any SMS platform including but not limited to the following:
- Contact lists
- Keywords
- Custom fields to personalize your text messages
- Text messaging templates
- Send SMS text to individual subscribers or all subscribers at once
- Track results
- Link shortener
- Short link images
- Unlimited groups
Some additional features can include:
- Mobile short code, Sender IDs
- Sub-accounts
- Custom branding for corporate use
- Custom opt-in forms for websites
…But is there any difference between the two really? Let’s find out!
Web-Based SMS platform
A web SMS platform allows you to create, send and receive text messages from any internet-enabled device in the world. Just sign up for an account, register your sub-accounts and you’re good to go!
This is also why it’s best recommended to enterprises that have a team that can handle its SMS marketing campaign using a single platform. Or for a company that simply needs a sole touchpoint for all of its internal communication affairs.
Like a Content Management System, web SMS platforms do have a user-friendly interface where you can manage your contacts and messages efficiently.
You can also integrate your SMS website into any of your existing business apps to meet your enterprise needs. But this process requires a unique set of skills which may overwhelm businesses that aren’t ready for scaling up yet.
Pros
- Easy to use
- No setup required
- Can be accessed anywhere from an internet-enabled computer
- Sub-accounts allowed
- API and integrations
- Great for enterprises
Cons
- Can get overwhelming for smaller businesses
SMS Software Packages
As the name suggests, this type of SMS service does come in a downloadable form. It allows users to send bulk SMS via a PC or Mac.
However, unlike a web-based SMS platform, an SMS application requires installation to your computer. You will have to log in to your account and search for the application to be downloaded before you begin running your campaigns.
Open the file to start the installation and then once installed, you can begin composing text messages and templates. However, you won’t be able to share your account with anybody else since you’re technically signing up for a package only you can download.
And since an SMS application isn’t cloud-based, all data are stored on your computer (but it still requires an internet connection to function fully). What makes this type of SMS service more convenient than an SMS website is that whenever a new text message comes in, you will be notified on your computer immediately.
Pros
- Real-time monitoring
- Store information locally
- Great for small businesses
Cons
- A bit of learning curve
- Can’t be accessed from other web-enabled devices
SMS Pricing
Pricing may vary, but a lot of service providers offer them in Pay-As-You-Go plans and in tiered pricing structures for a fixed fee. Price starts for as low as $24 to $150 per month.