6 Benefits of Using SMS API's For Your Business
Does your business use text messages for customer communication? If so, an SMS API can be a huge help. Writing and sending text messages manually is very time-consuming, but using an API is an easy way to simplify that process.
Before we jump into the six benefits of using an SMS API, let’s take a closer look at understanding what an SMS API actually is.
What Is An SMS API?
API stands for an application programming interface. In short, an API is an intermediary technology that allows two different applications to communicate with each other and work together. The API serves as a middleman between the two applications – and while we don’t see it working – it does a lot of the heavy lifting between applications.
One of the most common examples of an API we see in everyday life is a map embedded on a website or within another application. The API connects the website to a map application like Google Maps to display a specific location.
An SMS API connects your messaging program to other applications. This can dramatically expand your SMS service’s capabilities.
Some of the most common uses include:
- Delivery notifications
- Sales and events notifications
- Two-factor authentication
- Appointment confirmations, and;
- Personalised messages
Many different types of businesses use SMS APIs - from retail stores and medical offices, to restaurants and more.
How Can SMS APIs Benefit Your Business?
There are plenty of great reasons to invest in an SMS API gateway for your business. Text messages are a straightforward way for your business to communicate with customers – a 2019 study from Deloitte indicates that most Australians check their phones at least once every 30 minutes!
If your business is already using text messages, an API gateway can help expand your capabilities and send messages more efficiently.
Here are some of the great advantages of using an SMS API.
1. Message Automation
One of the most significant benefits of using an SMS API is that you can automate text messages rather than sending them manually. This saves your team a considerable amount of time and effort. You’ll be able to send hundreds or thousands of text messages with the click of a button.
With automated text messages, you can essentially run your business 24/7 without putting any extra workload on your staff. This helps increase business productivity without the added costs of hiring more staff, or extending their hours.
2. Feature Tracking
When you’re making an effort to send text messages for your business, it’s vital to ensure it is functioning correctly. You can also use an API to track the messages that you are sending to ensure they reach their final destination. Tracking also provides insight into how fast your messages are delivered and opened.
3. Flexible Messaging
SMS APIs are very flexible, which means that your business can customise them to suit your unique needs. There are so many different apps that you can integrate your API with, and you can choose from a variety of other features to use with your messaging.
4. Security
APIs are secure gateways, so you can feel comfortable knowing that the messages you’re sending to your customers are safe. Most APIs are encrypted to offer the best possible security and protection for their customers.
5. Communicate Without Internet
Another advantage of using SMS communications is that your customers don’t need internet access to receive them - all they need is their mobile phone. While many people today have Internet access, not everyone wants to be online all the time. SMS services increase your chances of a message reaching its intended recipient.
6. Analytics
You can use your API to connect your text messaging service with an analytics platform. Analytics is an essential component of any marketing strategy, as they allow you to see how your text messages directly contribute to sales and engagement. You can then use this information to improve your services.
An SMS API is a must-have for any business that likes to communicate with their customers via text message. APIs are a simple but powerful way to upgrade your messaging platform and provide more features to your customers.
SMSGlobal offers an SMS gateway platform with a wide range of API integrations. If you have any questions about SMS APIs, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly customer support team on 1300 883 400.
Related article: How SMS can supercharge lead generation and lead nurturing