How to Send an SMS from Migration Manager
The SMS function in Migration Manager allows users to harness the Email to SMS protocol to send an SMS to their clients using email (via Outlook). Note that Migration Manager does not actually send the SMS - for that you will need to register for and use a third party SMS gateway service. What Migration Manager does is converts mobile phone numbers in to an acceptable Email to SMS formatted addresses that can then be used in an email for sending to the SMS gateway which will then convert the email to an SMS.
What is Email to SMS?
Email to SMS is a form of technology that converts standard emails into SMS messages.
How does it work?
Depending on the Email to SMS service that you use, the service works by using an Application Programming Interface which allows for emails to be converted into SMS messages. For example, the gateway service may work by accepting emails from you (you would send to [email protected]), which will then convert that email into an SMS compatible format and push the message to the intended recipients. You can use this process to send an sms to individual numbers or create groups of numbers and send in bulk.
Which SMS gateway services does it work with?
Migration Manager can convert a mobile phone number to fit any gateway service that supports Email to SMS. Note that Migration Manager can not provide a specific recommendation as to which service you can/should register with. Any charges you incur as a result of using a third party SMS service are your responsibility.
The following article covers how to enable Email to SMS in Migration Manager
1. Enable SMS
If you have not already done so, you will need to enable the SMS functionality in Preferences. See: How to Enable SMS
2. Click the SMS Button
If SMS has been enabled, on each matter you should see an SMS button appear next to each mobile phone number. To send an SMS to this email address, click the SMS icon.
3. Review the Details
Because the SMS function uses Email to SMS, the Email To window will now appear. The SMS address will appear in the To field.
4. Click Create Email
Now click the Create Email button to generate an email with the SMS address
You can now proceed to type the content of your SMS in the body of the email. Send the email as per normal.
Note: Make sure you pay attention to the length of the message as this will affect the size of the SMS and any charges you incur from your SMS gateway provider.