In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about SMS content templates. If you’re in India, we’ll show you how to register your content templates on the DLT platform, easier and faster.
We’ll also provide you with tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible.
So sit back, relax and let’s dive in.
| Having issues completing your content registration? Our team can help you. Contact us or send an email to info@smscountry.com. |
What is an SMS content template?
SMS content templates are pre-approved message formats that you can use to send SMS messages to your customers.
They help you save time and effort by providing you with a customisable pre-written message.
SMS content templates are especially useful if you send a lot of SMS messages on a regular basis. They help you ensure that your messages are consistent and on-brand.
What are the different types of SMS content templates?
There are four types of SMS content templates you can use depending on your business needs and your location. They’re transactional, service-implicit, service-explicit, and promotional.
Transactional SMS template
A transactional SMS template is a type of SMS content template used to provide vital information related to a transaction made with a business or service.
Transactional SMS templates are usually sent in response to an action taken by the customer during the payment process.
For example, a bank might send an SMS to confirm a transaction made with your debit card. Or, an online store might send an SMS with recent purchase details.
Here’s a matching SMS template and example.
Template: Thank you for shopping Sarah. Order #{#Order number#} confirmed. Delivery on {#Deadline#}. For queries, call {#Phone number#}. Happy shopping!
Example: Thank you for shopping, Sarah. Order #123456 confirmed. Delivery on 25th August. For queries, call 01-123-456. Happy shopping!
To send transactional SMS the right way, see the best practices you need to follow.
Service-implicit SMS template
Service implicit SMS templates are SMS content templates that provide information about a service or product that a customer has already purchased or subscribed to.
For example, an airline might send an SMS with flight details or updates. They can use this SMS template.
Template: Reminder for your flight {#Flight number#} on {#Date#} at {#Departure time#} from {#Takeoff location#} to {#Destination#}. Check-in online & arrive 2 hrs before. Safe journey!
Example: Reminder for your flight ABC123 on 15th Aug at 14:00 from New York to London. Check-in online & arrive 2 hrs before. Safe journey!
Service-explicit SMS template
A service-explicit SMS template is a type of SMS content template used to promote a service or product that the customer has not yet purchased or subscribed to.
For example, a gym might send an SMS promoting their upcoming fitness classes.
Here’s a template (and example) to match.
Template: Exciting news, {#First name#}! New fitness classes launched – yoga, pilates, zumba & more. Join now & get {#Discount %#} off the first month. Call {#Phone#} to book!
Example: Exciting news, Jon! New fitness classes launched – yoga, pilates, zumba & more. Join now & get 20% off the first month. Call 01-123-456 to book!
Promotional SMS template
A promotional SMS template is a type of SMS content template used to offer special offers, discounts, and other promotions to prospects.
For example, a restaurant might send an SMS promoting their new menu items to people staying around them.
Template: Delicious news, {#First Name#}! Try our pasta dishes for (#Price#). Get a free dessert with orders above {#Price#}. Hurry, offer till {#Deadline#}. Order now!
Example: “Delicious news, Emma! Try our pasta dishes for $12. Get a free dessert with orders above $20. Hurry, offer till 31st Aug. Order now!”
What are the guidelines for creating SMS content templates?
Creating SMS content templates is not as simple as writing text messages. Follow these guidelines to hasten the approval process.
- Keep your template short and to the point. Aim for less than 160 characters.
- Use merge fields to personalise the message with the recipient’s name, location, or other relevant information.
- Make what you want the recipient to do very clear. Include a call to action, such as a link, a phone number, or a keyword.
- Avoid using abbreviations, slang, or informal language that might confuse or offend your customers.
- Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Avoid using all caps, excessive exclamation marks, or emojis.
- Do not include sensitive or confidential information, such as passwords, PINs, or account numbers.
- Avoid promotional or marketing language that might violate the spam laws or regulations of your country or region.
- Avoid content that might infringe on the intellectual property rights of others, such as trademarks, logos, or copyrighted material.
These are some of the basic guidelines for creating SMS content templates.
However, different platforms or providers might have their own SMS content rules or policies. Therefore, it is always advisable to check with them before submitting your templates for approval.
Let’s find out what DLT template registration is and why it’s vital.
| Having issues completing your content registration? Our team can help you. Contact us or send an email to info@smscountry.com. |
What is DLT template registration?
In India, DLT template registration is the process of submitting and getting approval for your SMS content templates on the Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platform.
DLT is a blockchain-based system that brings more transparency and accountability to the SMS industry in India. It is mandated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) for all businesses and service providers who want to send SMS messages to their customers in India.
DLT template registration is critical because it helps prevent spam, fraud, and unsolicited messages. It also ensures that your messages are compliant with TRAI regulations and guidelines.
How do you register SMS content templates on the DLT platform?
How you register your template on DLT is generally the same for all telecom operators. However, there might be some slight differences.
Check out our article on DLT registration for different Telecom operators in India.
- Airtel DLT Registration Process
- BSNL DLT Registration Process
- Vodafone DLT Registration Process
- Jio DLT Registration Process
- MTNL DLT Registration Process
- Videocon (PingConnect) DLT Registration Process
Can I register multiple SMS content templates on the DLT platform using the same account?
Yes, you can register multiple SMS content templates using the same account. However, each template needs to be approved separately by the telecom operator before you can use it to send messages.
How long does it take for SMS content templates to get approved?
Depending on the operator and template, it usually takes between 24 and 48 hours for a template to get approved. During this time, telecom operators will review your template and check if it complies with DLT regulations and guidelines.
They check for things like the template category, message content, brand name, intent, and variables. They also check if the template is unique and does not violate spam laws or regulations.
Following the best practices and expert advice will make it faster for you.
What are some DLT template registration best practices
To make the DLT template registration process easier, remember these tips:
- Choose the right template category: Understand your kind of business and what you want to use SMS for. This will help you choose the most appropriate template category, such as transactional, promotional, service implicit, or service explicit.
- Use your brand name when creating SMS content: Your brand name should be mentioned at least once in your SMS content. This will help your customers recognise you and trust your messages.
- Ensure your message has a clear CTA: Your message should clearly state what you want your customers to do next. CTAs like visit a website, call a number, and reply with a keyword.
- Use variables with caution: Each variable can have a maximum length of 30 characters. Avoid variables that might change the meaning or intent of your message.
To help you get your templates approved in your first attempt, we spoke to DLT registration expert to gather DLT template registration tips. Once your SMS content template is approved, you can send your customers messages.
Are there any fees associated with registering SMS content templates on the DLT platform?
No fees are associated with registering SMS content templates on the DLT platform. However, some telecom operators may charge a fee for registering headers or sender IDs on the DLT platform.
The header fee registration may vary depending on the operator and the type of header. For example, Vodafone charges Rs. 1000 + GST per header, while Jio costs Rs. 500 + GST per header. You can check the fee details on the respective DLT platforms of the operators.
Can I make changes to content templates after they have been approved?
No, you cannot modify content templates after they have been approved on the DLT platform. To do this, you must register your template with the changes and submit it for approval again. The old template will remain valid until the revised template is approved.
You can also delete or deactivate your content template if you do not want to use it anymore.
Ready to register your SMS content templates on the DLT platform?
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I need to register an SMS template?
You need to register an SMS template to comply with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) regulations that aim to prevent spam and fraudulent messages. By registering your SMS template, you ensure authenticity and relevance.
What will happen if I send an SMS without template registration?
If you send an SMS without template registration, operators or the DLT platform may block or filter your messages. You may also face penalties or legal actions from TRAI or operators for violating the regulations.
How many templates can be made?
You can make as many templates as you need for your business or service. However, each template must be tailored to your use case. You cannot use generic or vague templates for multiple purposes.
Is there a format in which a template needs to be created?
Yes, the template must be created in a specific format. Read this blog to learn more.
How many variables can be used in a single template?
You can only use up to 6 variables in a single template. A variable is a placeholder that can be replaced with dynamic data when sending a message. For example, {name} is a variable that can be replaced with the customer’s name.
How do I get SMS template approval?
To get SMS template approval, provide the following details for your template:
- Template name
- Template type (transactional, service implicit, service explicit, or promotional)
- Content category (the category of your business or service)
- Template content (the message format with variables)
Once you submit your template, it will be reviewed by the DLT platform and approved (or rejected) within 72 hours.
Why template status is showing blacklisted?
Template status is blacklisted if your template has been rejected by the DLT platform due to any of the following reasons:
- Your template does not follow the guidelines or format
- Your template contains promotional or marketing content in transactional or service templates
- Your template contains sensitive or personal information
- Your template is generic or vague and can be used for multiple purposes
If your template is blacklisted, you cannot send SMS messages. You need to modify your template and resubmit it for approval.
What is content category?
The content category is the category of your business or service you must select when registering your SMS template on the DLT platform. For example, banking, finance, education, health care, travel and tourism, and e-commerce.
You can find the complete list of content categories on the DLT platform website.
What is SMS template ID?
SMS template ID is a unique identifier assigned to your template once the DLT platform approves it. You need to use this ID when sending SMS messages using your template. You can find your SMS template ID on the DLT platform dashboard.
What is the template name?
The template name is the name you give your SMS template when registering it on the DLT platform. Template names help you identify and manage your templates easily. You can choose any relevant and descriptive name for your template.
Can I use any content for my SMS templates?
No, you cannot use ANY content for SMS templates. You must follow the DLT platform guidelines and format for creating your templates.
What happens if my SMS content template gets rejected?
If the DLT platform rejects your SMS content template, you’ll receive an email notification with the rejection reason. You can also check the status of your template on the DLT platform dashboard. If your template is rejected, you must modify it according to feedback and resubmit it for approval. Check out 4 Top Reasons Your DLT Template Registration will be Rejected
