Feature Request - Recurring Message Test

[rcollins]

Would it be possible to create a recurring test of the system messaging capabilities.  We recently had a call out where a few of the members did not receive notification.  It was discovered they had changed phone providers months prior and neglected to notify the admins.  Having recurring tests will ensure all members are able to receive notifications.

[Support]

It's a good idea and we can add it to our request list.

Your post raises a timely issue. We're having teams report issues with using the email-to-text gateway method (nnnnnnnnnn@phoneprovider.com) of sending texts. The phone providers are adopting stricter spam methodologies such that email texts are not reliable anymore. We urge teams to consider switching to the native text messaging offered by Mission Manager using fee-based Twilio. The cost is low, about a cent per text message segment and 1.5 cents per minute for phone calls, which is an added alert method if your team doesn't currently use phone calls via Mission Manager and Twilio.

[Dennis Peck]

RCollins: we have experienced the same when using text-to-SMS.  While reading the Twilio reference pages, we came across a clue that seems to have improved our text-to-SMS message delivery success rate (reduced blocking). 

Mobile carriers are always working to reduce SMS spam and they scan every SMS message.  One of the content items their filters look for is any reference informing the message recipient of how to stop future messages from .  the sender.  One of the key works is "STOP".  We now include an end of message phrase of "Reply STOP to unsub".  This has nearly eliminated message blocks that were mostly done by T-mobile.  The cost of using the phrase is fewer characters available for other content.

Twilio is a fine service though along with the added cost they have created a "corn-maze" of rules, requirements, and verifications (to limit spammers) that can cause frustration.  As of early November the verification rules will tighten further.

Your mileage may vary...