How do you know that you’ve found the right text messaging software for your business? How can you tell the difference between a specialist and a multi-purpose SMS marketing solution?
These are just some of the questions you may have in your mind right now. But things can get even more confusing if you don’t know exactly how to narrow down your options to one or two.
So, help you save time and money, here are some of the best tips to choose the right SMS marketing solution for you.
1. Specialist vs Multi-Purpose
First, define what type of text messaging software does your business need as there are two types:
Specialist – This type of sms marketing service is offered in tiered pricing structures depending on the number of messages you plan to send per month. For example, you’ll have to pay $49 for 1,500 messages, 1 keyword, free contact upload and unlimited groups.
Lower and higher tiers are also commonly offered to accommodate both small- and large-scale businesses.
Multi-Purpose – This is highly recommended to business owners who prefer to pay for each text message they send rather than pay for a package plan with a fixed fee.
Only pay when you send a message(s) and lease a short code and a keyword for the whole duration of your campaign.
2. Flexible monthly plans for a reasonable price
Many feel safe with a service provider that offers more expensive tier plans for obvious reasons. But ask yourself this: Do I really need those extra features at the moment? How much of it will be usable for my business?
If you think that a lower tier plan would suffice for this month’s campaign, then stick to it and avoid spending money on what you don’t need right now.
3. Must offer a free trial
Take advantage of the service provider’s 30-day free trial to test the software’s usability and features. See how your business can benefit from the features available like easy access to the software, customer support, data privacy and security, supported carriers and storage.
4. Excellent customer support
Business shouldn’t end after you sign-up for an account with your chosen text messaging software provider. It should continue beyond sales, whenever you need assistance in using the software, especially if you need to download and set it up on your own computer.
5. Regular bug fixes and updates
Just like your favorite apps, even a text messaging software has bugs. A reputable service provider should inform you of how they frequently perform updates, bug fixes and upgrades on the software.
Finding the best text messaging software provider depends a lot on your current business needs. But most importantly, it should meet your budget and won’t let you have a hard time using it.