Pharmacies Realize Use of SMS Gateways

Walgreens is but one of many who’ve realized the value of communication on the ubiquitous mobile phone and have integrated bulk text messaging via SMS gateways.

In a press release issued this week, Walgreens (NYSE: WAG) announced that it has implemented a number of new text messaging features in conjunction with the relaunch of its mobile website, evidently with the aid of SMS gateways.  Walgreens is one of the largest drugstore chains in the United States, with over 7,500 drugstores across all 50 states.

“Text alerts are a valuable time-saving tool, and the latest example of how our mobile applications are further connecting the Web to Walgreens stores and pharmacies, giving customers on-the-go convenience wherever they are,” said Walgreens Executive Vice President of Operations and Community Management, Mark Wagner.

They are one of the many companies that have recently realized that the integration of SMS text messaging into any existing communication strategies is cost-effective enough for a realistic and timeous ROI. On top of that, text messaging through SMS gateways also has the open- and response-rates to benefit other media types, thereby providing an engaging platform for consumer communication. “We strive to lead the market in bringing new and innovative technology to our pharmacies and pharmacy patients.” Walgreens is using text messaging to notify customers of prescriptions that are ready for collection and for promotional purposes.

While some companies shy away from this easy-to-implement technology under the misconception that it still has a high barrier to entry cost associated with it, there are others reaping the benefits of a technology that is becoming the first point of contact with customers. This is especially relevant in today’s post-recession environment where customers are increasingly prone to low-touch interaction with retailers and service providers.

SMS text messaging through SMS gateways has the ability to increase the value of service offering. As such it is important for business owners, marketers and others in key positions to consider the implementation of a technology that is both ubiquitous and gaining widespread acceptance as a tool for business to consumer communication.

About SMS Gateways

In layman’s terms SMS gateways can be defined as devices capable of translating messages received in one computer language into another. This ensures that businesses are able to employ SMS text messaging regardless of their current software infrastructure.

Connection to SMS gateways is simplified with the aid of application programming interfaces which, as the name suggests, is the interface used to establish the connection.

For more information on how you can SMS-enable your business with this easy-to-use technology, go to our SMS gateways page.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.