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Automation platforms and SMS workflows

Mobile Marketing
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How you can automate your SMS workflow via automation platforms – and when that really makes sense

It’s no secret: One of the biggest advantages of an SMS gateway is the easy connection via API. It allows you to easily integrate SMS sending into all kinds of projects. But what if you don’t know how to deal with an API? 

Don’t worry, there are numerous ways to automate your SMS dispatch – even without programming skills. With the help of various automation platforms, you can create effective workflows into which you can also integrate SMS sending.

In this blog post, we’ll give you an overview of what kind of workflows can be automated and what to look out for when automating your SMS workflow.

Why should I automate my SMS dispatch?

Basically, it is up to you whether you want to automate your SMS dispatch. In some use cases, automation makes no sense, but in many others it does.

If you decide to automate your SMS workflow, it can have very different benefits depending on the use case. They all have one thing in common: If your automation is implemented sensibly, you can save a lot of time. In many cases, this also means that your team is less busy and thus has time for other tasks.

SMS are often used in automated workflows as alerts or for other notifications that need to be read quickly. If you have decided to do this, you probably already know the advantages: SMS generate a high level of attention and are opened and read particularly quickly.

In addition, SMS are more accessible as a notification than almost any other message. The combination of these factors makes SMS so attractive, and thanks to automation, sending them is almost effortless.

Various automation platforms have made it their business to make your automated processes as simple as possible. With numerous modules you can build your own workflow on these platforms in a breeze.

In our integrations you will find not only various automation platforms, but also many other ways to integrate your SMS dispatch with third-party software.

Our integrations

How do I create an automated SMS workflow?

To create a successful automated SMS workflow, you should first determine which processes you can and want to automate and, ideally, what goals you want to achieve with this automation. You also need to decide on an automation platform.

1. Criteria to look out for

For your SMS workflow to be automated, it should meet some criteria. By the way, this also applies to other workflows that you might want to automate.

Basically, we assume that workflows must meet the following criteria in order to be suited for automation:

  • They are easy, or simple
  • repeatable
  • predictable

Your workflows must also be

  • well structured
  • goal-oriented
  • easily verifiable and
  • adaptable

2. Setting goals

Your objective is important not only for productivity reasons. It can also help you decide on an automation platform.
Ask yourself: What processes do you want to automate? What do you want to achieve with automation? What features do you really need to achieve your goals?

After a while, check to see if your goals are met and make adjustments as needed. Especially if you are using a paid automation platform, you should also keep in mind financial goals.

3. Choosing an automation platform

You know exactly what you want to do. Now you just need to find a suitable automation platform. You can choose between a variety of different platforms, depending on your personal needs. In recent years, no-code platforms like IFTTT have gained a lot of popularity, but there are also solutions that are explicitly aimed at developers. There are also platforms that specialize in certain fields, for example in home automation.

For you, these factors will play the biggest role in the decision:

  • Usability

    Are you looking for a no-code automation platform? Is the graphical representation of your workflows particularly important to you? You can test many platforms in advance to make sure they offer what you are looking for.

  • Pricing and scope

    For many automation platforms, the more processes you create, the more expensive it becomes. There may also be higher costs for multiple users. Also, find out about minimum contract terms and the ability to upgrade if you end up needing a more comprehensive plan.

  • Available connections

    Depending on the platform, you have a varying number of third-party softwares that can be integrated into your workflow. Which connections do you need? Which ones are indispensable, which ones may be optional? Are there other functions you need? If necessary, also find out about options for adding connections yourself.

Can I see an example, please?

Of course! Here are some examples with the automation platforms Zapier and Integromat (which is Make today), each in connection with our service.

Conclusion

If you decide to automate your SMS sending workflow (or parts of it), you can save time and thus cash. There are various use cases where sending SMS can be easily automated using automation platforms – just make sure that your processes can be automated well to begin with. You can choose from numerous automation platforms where you can add our services to your process with just a few clicks. For simple use cases, you may also be able to use one of our other integrations. Just give it a try!

We are curious: How do you use seven on which automation platform? We look forward to your comment.

All the best
Your sms77 team

Header picture by NicoElNino via iStock

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