Using Short Codes

Shortcodes can be a valuable tool in your communications with students and stakeholders.

• Messages process 100x faster on shortcodes than they do on long codes
• Shortcodes are not carrier filtered since those numbers are registered with the carrier
• Shortcodes open up the possibility for a consistent number that can be used for publications

There are three key use cases with shortcodes:
Outbound Messages for New Users: Before automatically sending all department messages from a short code, we will need to gather explicit opt-in at the RFI/Application level. Also, the institution will need to begin passing over a "can_text" field from the CRM in addition to the one we are using to opt students out.

Outbound Messages for Existing Users: If a student has already had a conversation with you via SMS, that means they are auto-opted into shortcodes from department numbers. We worked with our SMS provider to make sure we were in compliance: once a student has texted you on a shortcode or a long code (and it is not a message that would otherwise opt them out of texting), we can them consider them to have opted into shortcodes. Please note that shortcode messages are prefixed with the institution's short name for compliance reasons (i.e., "Winsford College: Welcome to Winsford communications! Reply HELP for info, STOP to cancel,"). This prefix will be on every message to a student that is on a shortcode. This short name can be edited if desired but must reflect the details of the sender and be obvious to the recipient.

Inbound Keywords: We have a shared shortcode for auto-responses that all customers can use to post on websites, banners, viewbooks, and email signatures (i.e. "Text Full Measure to 58052 for more information"). Each client has access to up to three auto-responses through this designated short code, provided they are unique to you. For example, you cannot use "Apply" as a keyword, but you could use "20002" (our zip code) to give directions or next steps for visiting campus.

 For questions related to shortcodes, please create a ticket or email ClientServices@fullmeasure.io.