An Alternative View to Texting
As defined by Wikipedia, short message service (SMS) is "the text communication service component of phone, web or mobile communication systems, using standardized communications protocols that allow the exchange of short text messages between fixed line or mobile phone devices." From the first SMS message sent in 1992, text messaging has grown to 2.4 billion users and 74% of all mobile phone customers.
As new technology develops daily and mobile devices become obsolete as you take them out of the box, there is debate over whether SMS use will expand or diminish over the next few years. There is certainly some proof that text messaging is here to stay, and new uses promise to increase popularity in certain business sectors.
One advantage of SMS is its simplicity: it is easy for users to operate and messages are kept short and simply by the 160 character limit. Its availability is another benefit, as message speed over networks almost in real time. In addition, SMS technology is inexpensively packaged with most mobile phone monthly plans, the majority of which offer unlimited use.
There are also several reasons that SMS appeals to businesses, and it will be these new and innovative uses that will ensure its longevity. For instance, the same advantages that make SMS attractive to consumers also motivate businesses seeking to advertise. This is especially true for small companies with limited marketing budgets and those new to multimedia advertising.
The simplicity of SMS makes it ideal for targeted advertising campaigns, since the only data transmitted is text. Cost for this type of advertising is minimal: There is no need to hire graphic designers or invest time on creation of a richer media experience. Plus, the technology enables companies to reach a broad range of consumers, since almost every mobile device manufactured today is SMS capable. With machine-to-machine SMS applications, companies can instantly send out promotional codes for online shopping and coupon codes for use in store.
One other useful advantage of SMS is its real-time tracking capabilities. Machine-to-machine applications can be configured so that a mobile device automatically sends out real time location information to a fixed machine. This is preferred over current GPS technology that only sends out periodic messages. For trucking companies and other businesses that need constant updates to logistical information, SMS will become even more useful.
On the other hand, there is some support for the view that SMS will diminish in significance. Trends indicate that consumers who currently utilize SMS for personal use are moving to smart phones. These devices are capable of sending email and gaining access to social media websites over the internet, both of which are preferable to users who enjoy a richer media experience.
Another key factor that may drive down SMS usage is spam. It is true that the benefits of SMS advertising support the expansion of SMS, as mentioned above. Still, it may be overuse of SMS marketing campaigns that will stunt its future growth. Consumers despise spam; without some sort of filter on unsolicited messages and security features, they will cancel SMS add-ons as part of their mobile service packages.
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Whichever argument is stronger, one common thread will have a major effect on the future of SMS: advertising. Controlled expansion is possible with responsible marketing campaigns and schemes which allow opt-in by consumers. However, use of SMS technology promises to diminish without close regulation of spamming tactics and fraudulent practices.