Text Messaging Featured Article

Text messaging technology has come a long way. Gone are the days when we had to significantly shorten conversations to minimize the number of characters in a text. And soon mobile bills evolved into mobile bills with texting plans included as a standard. It created a way for people keep in touch in an easy and non-invasive way.

Today, a large percentage of the market segment that once focused solely on texting is now relying on Snapchat and other social media platforms to share information. But the enterprise is now looking at the potential afforded with mobile messaging. Those teens that once developed thumb cramps are now writing core corporate strategy and executing on sales plans. It seems only natural to incorporate text messaging as a prominent communication channel.

For some operations, this shift is seen as an opportunity. For others, it’s considered limiting for IT controls and makes it more difficult to separate work life from personal life. With the adoption and expansion of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs, however, there seem to be quite a few users who don’t mind the flexibility such communications provide. And mobile monitoring solutions can equip IT with the tools they need.

Initial concerns set aside, let’s take a look at some of the reasons why text messaging is a great communication tool for enterprise users:

Mobile Marketing – we all use our mobile devices for communication, entertainment, online purchases and so much more. Why not also use this channel to push relevant promotional offers and specials, user status updates and notifications to those who want them? It will mean investing in the right tools to be sure your company is playing by the rules, but the return can be huge. People use their phones every day, and usually carry them with them; texting is often an easier and more efficient way to reach people as a result.

Collaboration – one of the keys to success in the enterprise is the ability of your coworkers to stay connected and collaborate with each other as necessary. Text messaging provides a quick and easy way to do so, while also providing a digital paper trail when needed.

Customer Communication – while initial messages to customers shouldn’t be sent via text messaging, sales professionals often use this tool to stay connected with those with whom they have built a relationship. It’s a quick and easy way to send information without intruding on the individual’s time, as well as to reinforce your company’s relationship with the customer. Higher level support and attention often leads to higher customer retention rates, and texting is a great way to improve those numbers.  

Team Information – for years, corporate environments have used email communications to keep employees abreast of the latest happenings and share key information. If you want to let everyone off an hour early, wouldn’t it be better for your employees if they can see the message right away?

The list goes on, but you get the idea – there are already applications for text messaging in the corporate environment, and there are more every day. You do have to decide what’s best for your company, so just put a strategy together that reinforces your values. In doing so, you’ll be better equipped to use this tool to your advantage.