Last Updated on April 6, 2025 by Caesar
Why SMS is Making a Comeback
Ever feel like your emails get lost in a sea of spam? You’re not alone.
Nowadays Inboxes are flooded with marketing emails, many of which go unnoticed or end up in spam folders. As a result, businesses struggle to reach their customers effectively.
The solution? Bulk SMS messaging.
Unlike email, SMS messages are direct, instant, and highly effective. With an open rate as high as 98% compared to just 20% for email, SMS stands out as one of the most powerful communication tools available today. (Source: Mobile Marketing Association)
This article explores five innovative ways businesses are using SMS beyond basic promotions—and how you can do the same.
The Power of Direct Communication
In an age of information overload, cutting through the noise is crucial. Customers receive endless notifications, emails, and ads daily, making it hard for businesses to stand out.
Why SMS?
- Instant visibility: 90% of text messages are read within three minutes of delivery. (Source: Gartner)
- Universal accessibility: SMS works on any mobile phone, without the need for an internet connection.
Now, let’s explore five innovative ways businesses are leveraging this powerful tool.
Use Case 1: Getting Instant Feedback with SMS Polls & Surveys
Businesses use Bulk SMS to ask quick questions and get real-time answers from customers. This method is much faster than email surveys and typically yields higher participation rates.
Benefits:
- Faster feedback compared to traditional surveys.
- Higher participation rates due to SMS’s immediate nature.
- Simplified data collection.
Real-World Examples:
- Restaurants ask customers about their dining experience.
- Event organizers collecting live audience feedback.
- Political campaigns running quick opinion polls.
How to Implement:
- Use short, clear questions.
- Offer simple multiple-choice options.
- Automate responses to streamline data collection.
Example: “Text ‘PIZZA’ to 1234 to rate our pizza: 1-Excellent, 2-Good, 3-Okay.”
Use Case 2: Keeping Accounts Safe with 2-Factor Authentication (2FA)
With rising cybersecurity threats, businesses use SMS for 2-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user accounts.
Benefits:
- Adds a critical layer of security.
- Boosts customer trust.
- Simple and easy to use.
Real-World Examples:
- Banks sending verification codes.
- E-commerce stores confirming logins.
- Social media platforms securing user accounts.
How It Works:
- User enters their username and password.
- A unique code is sent via SMS.
- User enters the code to complete login.
Statistic: “2FA can block 99.9% of automated bot attacks.” (Source: Microsoft)
Use Case 3: Sending Important Alerts and Notifications
Businesses rely on SMS to deliver urgent and time-sensitive information.
Benefits:
- Instant reach.
- Reliable in emergencies.
- Keeps people informed without requiring internet access.
Real-World Examples:
- Government agencies sending weather alerts.
- Doctors’ offices reminding patients about appointments.
- Schools notifying parents about important updates.
How to Implement:
- Use concise, clear messaging.
- Segment audiences for targeted alerts.
- Provide opt-out options for compliance.
Use Case 4: Boosting Email Marketing with SMS Reminders
SMS can act as a companion to email marketing campaigns, reminding customers to check their inboxes.
Benefits:
- Increases email open rates.
- Drives traffic to email content.
- Reduces missed opportunities.
Real-World Examples:
- Webinar reminders with a link to the registration page.
- Sales promotions encourage customers to check their emails.
- Abandoned cart reminders directing users to their cart email.
How to Implement:
- Send short, friendly reminders.
- Include a clear call to action.
Statistic: “SMS reminders can increase email open rates by up to 30%.” (Source: Campaign Monitor)
Use Case 5: Improving Communication in Education
Schools and universities use SMS to keep students and parents informed.
Benefits:
- Reduces absenteeism.
- Enhances school-home communication.
- Ensures timely updates.
Real-World Examples:
- Attendance notifications sent to parents.
- Exam schedule reminders for students.
- Emergency school closures communicated instantly.
How to Implement:
- Use clear, professional language.
- Segment messages for students and parents.
Statistic: “Schools using SMS see a 20% reduction in unexcused absences.” (Source: Education Technology Journal)
Getting Started with Bulk SMS
Want to implement Bulk SMS in your business? Here’s how:
1. Choose a Reliable SMS Provider
Look for a provider with good deliverability rates and compliance with regulations.
2. Understand Shortcodes & Longcodes
- Shortcodes (e.g., 12345) are great for marketing campaigns.
- Longcodes (e.g., +1 555-123-4567) work well for customer service and transactional messages.
3. Integrate SMS with Your Existing Systems
Connect SMS with CRM, email marketing, or customer service platforms for seamless communication.
4. Prioritize Opt-in & Compliance
- Get customer consent before sending messages.
- Follow local regulations (e.g., TCPA in the U.S.).
Measuring Your Success
To maximize results, track key performance indicators (KPIs):
1. Key Metrics to Monitor:
- Delivery rate: Measures how many messages were successfully delivered.
- Open rate: Tracks how many recipients read the SMS.
- Response rate: Indicates engagement levels.
2. Use Analytics Tools
Most SMS platforms provide dashboards for tracking campaign performance.
3. A/B Test Your Messages
Experiment with different wording, timing, and call-to-action styles to optimize results.
Final Words
To recap, here are five smart ways businesses use bulk SMS:
- Instant feedback through SMS polls and surveys.
- Enhanced security with 2FA authentication.
- Urgent notifications and alerts.
- Boosting email marketing effectiveness.
- Improving communication in education.
Why SMS Works:
- Direct communication with high open rates.
- Immediate reach with faster response times.
- Versatile applications across industries.
Take Action Today
Try bulk SMS marketing for your business and experience the benefits firsthand.
Need help getting started? Visit
