RCS or SMS message: how to choose?

[mdsojolh43]

SMS messaging has proven itself time and time again as a preferred communication channel for businesses looking to build a close relationship with their target audience. With a high open rate and read rate, it allows you to be sure that your message will be read in no time. However, innovations around mobile messaging are developing rapidly and RCS now offers advanced features to communicate differently with your customers, prospects and other contacts. So, is it better to opt for RCS messaging or SMS ? How do you choose between these two communication methods? Esendex takes you through the key features to help you determine which option is best for your situation and needs.

SMS messaging
SMS , or Short Message Service, offers several advantages that make it an effective communication channel for companies from various sectors of activity.

What are the advantages of SMS?
Here are the main advantages of SMS:

universal compatibility;
no internet needed to receive SMS;
extended range;
high reading rate;
speed reading;
efficiency for urgent notifications;
customization;
profitability.
SMS has universal compatibility. No matter what type of mobile phone your contacts use, they will be able to receive your messages. This standardized communication technology is integrated into all mobile phones: Smartphones (iPhone or Android) and basic models. Unlike some messaging systems, receiving SMS does not require an Internet connection or the installation of a specific application.

Text messages are also distinguished by their extensive reach. They can be sent and received via the mobile phone network, making them accessible even in areas with limited or no Internet coverage. This is why SMS messaging is a universal means of communication that gives you the opportunity to reach your target wherever they are in the world.

On the other hand, SMS proves to be an extremely effective communication channel, as demonstrated by its impressive opening and reading rates. In fact, 98% of SMS messages are opened by the recipients, which means jamaica whatsapp list that almost all messages reach their target. The reading rate in less than 3 minutes after receipt shows that SMS is particularly effective for communicating instantly. It is therefore a means of sending urgent information, such as SMS alerts or other important notifications.

A text message can be personalized for each user in order to transmit a more personal and therefore more effective communication. It helps to create a close relationship and promote customer engagement.

The cost of sending SMS messages is generally competitive, making it a particularly cost-effective option. An SMS campaign can therefore have a significant impact on return on investment (ROI).

In what situations is it interesting to use SMS?
Here are some situations where using SMS can be particularly interesting:

Appointment reminders: SMS is a great way to remind customers of an appointment or booking;
Delivery notifications: Delivery companies can use text messages to notify customers about the status of their order;
marketing: you can send promotional offers and discounts through SMS marketing ;
Emergency alerts: SMS allows you to communicate quickly with the population in an emergency or crisis situation;
Two-factor authentication: Send verification codes to your customers easily via text message…
What are the disadvantages of SMS?
Although SMS offers many advantages, it also has some disadvantages. One of them is the character limitation. In fact, a standard SMS message cannot contain more than 160 characters, which causes restrictions if you need to send longer or more complex messages.

Standard SMS does not support rich content with images or videos. These are elements that will need to be taken into account when setting up your SMS campaign.

RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging
RCS or Rich Communication Services is a messaging technology that represents the evolution of traditional SMS. This mobile communication protocol offers a richer and more interactive experience. Discover Esendex's offer for sending RCS messages .

What is RCS?
The RCS protocol was born in 2007. It was designed to become a new messaging standard capable of competing with the then booming instant messaging platforms. It was subsequently developed by the GSMA consortium, an association of mobile operators and manufacturers. But it is mainly to Google that we owe its deployment.