TechSoup Talks Webinar: Using Mobile Technologies for Outreach and Education

Return here after the webinar for a post event discussion!

Thank you for the informative webinar. I finally located my bookmark on a free SMS-management software system that is of a different nature than those mentioned.

http://www.frontlinesms.com/

Its promo says: "A lack of communication can be a major barrier for grassroots non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in developing countries. FrontlineSMS is the first text messaging system created exclusively with this problem in mind. By leveraging basic tools already available to most NGOs — computers and mobile phones — FrontlineSMS enables instantaneous two-way communication on a large scale. It’s easy to implement, simple to operate, and best of all, the software is free."

dhackett,

As far as I know, in order to use FronlineSMS (or the similar product RapidSMS) in the United States, the user still has to lease a short code   through a SMS messaging , marketing, or management company.  Early in our SMS research, we considered using one of these open source SMS platforms, but it didn't take long before we realized that these systems are technically demanding and not as "free" as they might seem. True, the software is free. But the technical expertise required and the SMS vendor are not. And given the level of service that many SMS management companies offer, FrontlineSMS is un-necessary.

I think FrontlineSMS has more appeal in developing countries with less regulated cell phone infrastructures. The USA is famous for having a tightly controlled cell phone system that limits consumer choice and access.

That said, if you find a way to use FrontlineSMS here in the US in a cost effective manner, then I'd be very interested to hear more.

Adam

Adam, I think you're right. I haven't used Frontline so can't speak on that end of it. But it does advertise itself as a solution for developing countries. I'm experimenting with setting up a (free) tatango.com SMS group right now. It works (ad-supported) for US phones and is free other than the cost to receivers at regular SMS rates on their plans.

Enjoying this discussion and just moving it on over to the Wireless Connectivity forum where it fits in a bit better.

Best,

Megan