Whether you are new to text messaging or using an existing service, if you require one or more dedicated short codes Interactive Mediums will work with you to ensure hassle-free on-boarding and transition processes. First, some background about short codes, aggregators and carriers to explain these important members of the mobile ecosystem.
Common Short Code Administration (CSCA)
Short codes are 5-6 digit mobile phone numbers leased from the CSCA for use in U.S. commercial messaging programs. Interactive Mediums has contracted for several of these codes and they are offered on a “shared” basis in a turnkey fashion by use of keyword differentiation (many keywords can relate to a single code to service any number of customer accounts). Should a customer desire or possess its own short codes, they must register these with CSCA and pay monthly fees which vary according to type – randomly assigned at $500 per month, while vanity or personalized codes cost $1000 per month. Codes are leased in 3, 6 or 12 month terms with payment due at lease inception. Customers are free to register and pay these fees to CSCA directly themselves, or Interactive Mediums can manage these payments in line with license and services fees associated with our contract to centralize billing with one provider.
A dedicated short code must first be registered with the CSCA before provisioning, the process which brings the code/s “live” on carrier networks. Interactive Mediums can manage this activity on behalf of its customers as part of implementation services. The process to set up a dedicated short code program takes between 6-10 weeks.
You can visit the CSCA website to learn more about short codes and to check the availability of a vanity short code at: http://www.usshortcodes.com/
Connectivity with Aggregators
The next step is to activate your short code on each carrier’s network to establish connectivity with mobile customers via aggregation partners. As noted, this is an activity Interactive Mediums can manage on your behalf. This involves working with you to advise on specific carrier policies and procedures, and help you develop a “program brief” describing your intentions. Our team will then file a program application, and nurture it through the process to final certification and commercial production availability. Should you already have carrier connections for your dedicated short code, we also can help you seamlessly transition to aggregation partners associated with our service.
