How you can use USSD Push in your business

by | Oct 30, 2013 |

You get two types of USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) messages: Push and Pull. Pull messages are used more often for customer services than Pull, but the latter can be used to great effect within a business. So, what exactly is USSD Push? It is when you use Unstructured Supplementary Service Data...

Is USSD the new SMS?

by | Oct 28, 2013 |

Have you ever typed a code starting with an asterisk and ending with a hash on your mobile? Or have you ever received a flash message on your phone containing a pin you requested or promotional material? Then you have made use of USSD Push and Pull services. USSD is a communication protocol used to send text messages between a mobile phone and an application via a network. The network is called the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network. It is similar to an SMS, however it provides session-based connections only – you can’t store or forward the message. USSD Push and Pull messaging are increasing in popularity and some people have asked the question whether USSD is the new SMS. But why is that? What makes Unstructured Supplementary Service Data a viable competitor in the world of business communication? USSD is real-time and instant. In fact, it can be anything up to seven times faster and much cheaper than SMS for two-way transactions. It is similar to speaking to someone, because it allows faster communication between users and network applications – messages are sent directly to the receiver allowing an instant response. An SMS can be compared to sending a letter. You have to wait for the message to be delivered and then wait some more for a reply – not the best method for attracting customers who are pressed for time. USSD could allow for more creativity on the side of the business owner. Because it supports menu-based applications, a business can offer a wider range and more complex services. It is flexible and cost effective...

What is USSD Push?

by | Sep 4, 2013 |

USSD is the abbreviation for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data. You can get two types of USSD options: Push and Pull. What is the difference? USSD is real-time messaging option similar to SMS where you don’t speak to a person but exchange data during a session based connection with a computer. Most handsets are capable of utilizing this service – all you need is a connection to a GSM network and you are all set. USSD Pull messages are seen as “pulling in” a client to make use of your service. In other words, the client has to come to you via their mobile phone. The mobile subscriber requests your services through a message towards the Gateway using USSD Short Codes e.g.*100. Examples include: Info on the latest news or sports Purchases (tickets, airtime) Some call centres use USSD instead of Interactive Voice Response Systems Unstructured Supplementary Service Data Push messages can be described as “pushing a message on the client.” Here you are bringing your service to your clients Supplementary Service protocols can offer...