Speed and quality of information are important for good emergency communication. Here are 5 benefits of SMS notifications for communicating in a crisis.
From security breaches and software failure to extreme weather and police incidents, SMS and other mobile messaging channels are a great way to keep people informed. SMS notifications are particularly useful, thanks to SMS’s accessibility – 91% of the world owns a mobile phone and there’s no need to have an internet connection to receive messages.
Here are some more benefits of SMS notifications for emergency communications.
- Messages aren’t missed
- Easily confirm whether messages were delivered and read
- Provide real-time information
- Have two-way conversations
- Save time via prebuilt message templates
1. Messages aren’t missed
In addition to reaching a wide audience, the average open rate for SMS is 98% and more than 90% of people read a text message within the first three minutes of receiving it. So, when you send your emergency messages via SMS, you’re doing all you can to make sure your recipients both read and act upon the information given.
2. Easily confirm whether messages were delivered and read
Great SMS messaging platforms will provide you with insight into how your messages have performed, such as delivery and read rates. You’ll also be able to see which contacts received and engaged with the message. Not only will this allow you to quickly and easily confirm whether your messages were delivered and read, but you can see which of your contacts hasn’t yet seen the information.
You can then take steps to ensure that they’re aware of the situation – such as targeting them via another communication channel.
3. Provide real-time information
Thanks to the accessible nature of SMS, you can keep your audience informed even when they’re on the go. Send real-time, accurate updates of the situation so they’re always in the loop.
4. Have two-way conversations
With an average response rate of 45%, people are more likely to respond to an SMS message than they are to other communications channels, such as an email or a phone call.
Using a Virtual Mobile Number (VMN) or a memorable short code, you’re opening up the lines of communication so your audience can choose their preferred channel to reach you. It allows you to send more tailored information to individual people in real time and form a one-to-one connection.
5. Save time via prebuilt message templates
In an emergency, timeliness is everything. Get your messages out to the relevant people faster by taking advantage of prebuilt message templates.
Great SMS platforms will allow you to build message templates in advance or have a library of templates ready for you to use, so you can spend less writing text messages and more time handling the emergency.
SMS: The ideal addition to your emergency communications strategy
With its high open and engagement rates, popularity and ease of use, SMS is a great channel for communicating critical information when time is of the essence. However, as good as it is, it’s important to use SMS as part of a wider comms strategy. Broaden your reach when you adopt a multichannel communication approach.
Emergency communication SMS can be especially helpful for utility providers, such as local governments and councils.
At Esendex, we have over 20 years of experience in helping organisations across various industries connect with their audience. Our mobile messaging services can help you have natural, engaging interactions that support your organisation to grow.
Why not see what we can do by getting in touch today?
Laura Haynes
Hey I'm Laura, UK&I Marketing Manager at Esendex 👋 I enjoy developing and implementing marketing strategies and campaign experiences that create brand awareness and drive revenue by winning, growing and retaining engaged customers.
