In this article, we'll explain all the various parts of creating and sending an SMS.
SMS stands for Short Message Service and is used for sending short messages from a mobile device. We've created a tool that allows you to send Bulk messages to your students, simply and easily.
An SMS typically consists of 160 characters. Using Emojis etc can add up quite quickly so keep an eye on the number of SMS your message currently spans. You can see this in the bottom right area of the compose screen.
They can add up quickly when you're writing long messages. Try to keep them short.
Where can I find the SMS tool?
You can find the Bulk SMS tool under Send.
What are credits?
Credits are our solution for managing the cost of sending the SMS. There's a hard cost associated with sending them, which depends on your region. We use credits to cover that cost while keeping your overall subscription as low as possible. Some companies will 'throw in free credits' but ramp up your subscription costs to cover them - we don't do that. This way you know exactly what you're spending with no surprises.
You can purchase credits to use when sending your SMS messages on the Bulk SMS screen.
How many credits does an SMS use?
This can vary slightly based on how many characters you've used in your message and how many emojis you have used etc. Keep an eye on the count in the bottom right:
Where can I find the status of the messages I send?
When you send a bulk message, you can check it's delivery status by clicking on the message title in the reports list within Send:
What is the OPT OUT text/what's it for?
By law we need to include a way for students to Opt Out of recieving SMS communications every time we send a message. This is included in your character count and we've made it as short as possible. The message reads: UNSUB https://otsu.io/out
What mobile number will appear for my students?
The message will appear to have come from MARTIALARTS rather than a phone number where possible. In regions that don't support this, your students will see a toll-free, or long-code mobile number from a large pool of numbers we have available.
What happens if they reply to a message?
The messages are one-way only. Students will see an 'undelivered' message on their device if they try (this differs per brand of device) but they can't reply directly and you won't be charged for them attempting to.