Online SMS vs. SMSEagle: A Comprehensive Cost Comparison

Posted On 28 January 2025 By Patryk Patej In Articles /

Online SMS vs. SMSEagle: A Comprehensive Cost Comparison

Businesses heavily rely on SMS for critical communication. From sending notifications to customers to internal alerts for staff, SMS messaging is a fast and efficient tool. However, with increased reliance comes a heightened risk and many organizations overlook the potential vulnerabilities of online SMS gateways, which rely on only basic security measures provided by mobile carriers.

Introduction

Businesses today rely on SMS for a variety of tasks, from customer notifications to internal system alerts to sales and marketing campaigns. The costs of using online SMS platforms can quickly spiral out of control, especially when considering per-message fees, hidden charges, carrier costs, and subscription-based pricing models. For organizations with medium to high messaging volumes, this reliance on online SMS gateways can become a big financial concern.

SMSEagle offers a cost-efficient alternative that addresses these challenges. As an on-premises SMS gateway, it operates on a one-time investment model, using SIM cards to provide businesses with affordable and predictable messaging costs. Let’s see how SMSEagle saves money while providing reliable communication.

Understanding SMS Pricing of Online SMS Solutions vs. SMSEagle

Hidden Costs of Online SMS Solutions

These online SMS platforms can be tricky when it comes to SMS pricing. You might think you have a good deal, but there are often hidden costs that can really surprise you.

Pay-as-you-go plans seem simple, right? But if you send a lot of messages, those costs can skyrocket quickly. It can get really expensive, especially if you’re dealing with a lot of customers.
Hidden fees are a common problem. You might think you’re just paying for the messages, but many platforms charge extra for things like API access, delivery receipts, or even routing your messages through certain networks. It can feel like you’re constantly getting hit with unexpected charges.
Scaling costs can be a real headache. When your business grows and you need to send more messages, it’s hard to know exactly how much it will cost. This makes it difficult to plan your budget and can lead to some unpleasant surprises.
Monthly subscriptions can add up too. Even if you don’t send many messages in a particular month, you’re still paying that recurring fee. It can feel like you’re paying for something you’re not really using.

To make things even more complicated, the costs can vary depending on the carrier network provider you’re using. Sending text messages to different carriers can have different prices, and there are often different rates for registered and unregistered traffic. It can be a real maze to navigate.

SMSEagle is a hardware & software solution that guarantees a swift delivery of your messages to designated recipients, whether it’s for notifications, alerts, or important updates.

14-days free trial
Online Access to physical device

No credit card required
Access to over 20 functionalities

How SMSEagle Solves These Cost Issues

SMSEagle provides users a simpler, more transparent pricing model:

One-Time Hardware Purchase: Businesses pay upfront for the device, avoiding ongoing subscription fees and one time setup fee.
SIM Card-Based Messaging: Local SIM cards enable affordable messaging plans, with many offering unlimited SMS at low rates (max throughput being 30 SMS/min per modem*)
Predictable Operational Costs: After the initial investment, costs are limited to carrier fees, making budgeting straightforward and reliable.

*Hardware SMS solutions are limited by their cellular modems, sending and receiving 30 SMS/per min max.

SMS Marketing Cost Factors

There are a few things that really impact how much you’ll spend.

First, you’ve got the SMS platform fees. Different platforms charge different amounts, some charge per user, others per message, and some even have a mix of both. Choosing the right platform can make a big difference in your budget.

Then there are the messaging fees themselves. Sending SMS and MMS messages costs money, and the price can change depending on what you’re using them for and how many you send. If you’re sending a ton of messages, for example, these costs can really add up.

And don’t forget about the other fees. You might have to pay for storing data, integrating the platform with other tools, or getting support. These extra costs can sneak up on you, so it’s important to keep them in mind.

By understanding these costs, you can make smarter decisions about your SMS marketing and make sure you’re getting the best return on your investment.

Pricing Models Compared

Let’s break down how these SMS marketing platforms charge you – it can get a bit confusing! There are several factors here are a few main ways they do it:

1. Pay-as-you-go:

This is like paying for each message you send. It’s great if you don’t know how many messages you’ll need, but it can get pricey if you’re sending a lot. Some companies like Twilio offer this, and they often give you discounts if you send a ton of messages.

https://www.twilio.com/en-us/pricing/messaging

2. Committed-use discounts:

This is where you agree to send a certain set number of messages within a set time, and you get a lower price. This is perfect if you know how many messages you’ll need, like if you have regular campaigns. Textedly offers this for free, and you can usually get a discount if you commit for a whole year. This helps you budget better and save some money.

By comparing marketing pricing between these options, you can find the one that fits your needs and budget the best. This way, you can make the most of your SMS marketing without breaking the bank.

Use Case Comparison: How SMSEagle Delivers Cost Savings

To show the overall cost and advantages of SMSEagle, let’s see some real-world use cases across industries:

By using SMSEagle, businesses can also improve their SMS marketing ROI by reducing costs and increasing the effectiveness of their text message marketing campaigns.

Government & Administration

Let’s talk about government agencies. Sending lots of text messages, like alerts or updates, can really hurt their budgets. Many online services charge recurring fees, which can be a big problem for organizations with limited funds.
SMSEagle offers a solution. By using a local SIM card, government offices can send these messages without those ongoing costs. Imagine a city that sends 50,000 messages a month – they could save thousands of dollars each year!

SMS Marketing Campaigns

For businesses, sending marketing texts through online platforms can get expensive quickly. They often charge for every single message, which can really add up.
SMSEagle helps businesses keep costs down. They can easily connect SMSEagle with their marketing tools, and the low SIM card rates make sending marketing texts much more affordable.

Healthcare

In healthcare, patient communication is super important, but it can also be very costly. Online platforms often charge recurring fees, and storing sensitive patient data with third parties can create privacy concerns.
SMSEagle addresses both of these issues. Since messages are processed locally, patient data is kept secure, and there’s no risk of violating privacy rules. Plus, the lower costs compared to online platforms can save clinics a lot of money. A clinic sending 10,000 messages a month could potentially save up to 80%!

Savings Snapshot:

All-Inclusive Features: No Hidden Costs

With SMSEagle, all features are included in the device’s price, providing businesses and other carriers with comprehensive functionality without additional fees. Key features include:

Multi-Channel Messaging: Supports SMS/MMS and voice communication without requiring additional subscriptions.
Email-to-SMS Automation: Converts emails to SMS messages, streamlining workflows at no extra cost.
API Access: Fully customizable integrations with existing systems, without charging for API calls or usage.
Advanced Alerting: Features like repeat alerts ensure critical messages are seen, at no extra cost.
Multi-Modem: Enables redundancy and reliability for uninterrupted communication. In case of modem failure a multi-modem device will switch to a different modem reducing downtime.
Subscriptions: Enables customers to opt-in for communications by texting a specific keyword, enhancing customer engagement.

Conclusion: Invest in Cost Efficiency with SMSEagle

Unlike online platforms that charge per message, SMSEagle offers predictable pricing, even for high-volume text message marketing campaigns or MMS messages. With volume discounts through local carrier networks, businesses can cut down on overall costs while enjoying robust features like custom keywords and support for both short codes and long codes.
With its transparent pricing and powerful tools, SMSEagle gives businesses the confidence to grow their communication capabilities without sacrificing budget. Ready to save money and take control of your SMS marketing pricing? Explore SMSEagle’s features today and contact us to see how it can transform your messaging needs.

Ready to cut your communication costs? Explore SMSEagle’s features and request a demo today. Take control of your messaging expenses and invest in a solution that grows with your business needs.

New Rack Mount for SMSEagle NXS Devices

14 February 2025 No Comments

SMSEagle is introducing a new rack mount accessory designed specifically for the NXS-97xx series. This addition allows seamless integration of devices into standard 19-inch server racks, providing a professional and organized setup for businesses that rely on SMS gateway solutions.

Online SMS vs. SMSEagle: A Comprehensive Cost Comparison

28 January 2025 No Comments

Reliable Notifications in a Digital World: Going Offline

15 January 2025 No Comments

We can still miss important notifications. Whether it’s a storm warning, a financial alert, a medical reminder or a text message, the reliability of notifications can impact our lives. Ensuring important messages, such as crucial reminders and information, reach employees effectively through text alerts is essential. This article will show how SMSEagle makes sure these alerts reach us even when the internet is down by using offline notification strategies.

Reliable Notifications in a Digital World: Going Offline

Posted On 15 January 2025 By Patryk Patej In Articles /

Reliable Notifications in a Digital World: Going Offline

The Problem with Online Only Notifications

Our dependence on internet for notifications has its downsides. Network outages, poor coverage and technical glitches can result to missed message notifications, especially in apps like the Messages app that rely on internet connectivity. Imagine missing a severe weather warning because your internet was down or not receiving a critical bank notification because of poor signal strength. These scenarios show we need a more robust solution that doesn’t rely only on being online. SMSEagle solves this problem with its offline notification capabilities.

Offline Notifications

Offline notifications are alerts that can reach us without internet connectivity. SMSEagle uses alternative communication methods so we can receive messages and important information will be delivered regardless of our online status. These notifications are most important in emergencies or in areas with spotty internet.

Technologies for Offline SMS Notification System

SMS (Short Message Service)

SMS is a universal technology that works on even the most basic mobile phones. It requires minimal data and is very reliable. For example weather alerts and bank notifications often use SMS to ensure delivery even when data services are down. Text notifications are important for sending time-sensitive and critical information. SMSEagle uses this technology so your messages will always be delivered.

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)

USSD allows communication between a mobile phone and the service provider’s computers via text. Unlike SMS, USSD sessions are real-time and does not store messages. This makes USSD ideal for applications like mobile banking and checking service balances, a quick and reliable way to access important information. SMSEagle supports USSD to complement your notification strategy.

Flash SMS

Flash SMS, also known as Class 0 SMS, appears directly on the recipient’s screen without needing to open a messaging app. This is ideal for emergency alerts and critical notifications that need immediate attention. SMSEagle can send flash SMS to ensure urgent messages are noticed right away.

MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service)

MMS allows the sending of multimedia content like images, videos, and audio files. This can be particularly useful for detailed alerts and instructions, making it easier to convey complex information. SMSEagle supports MMS to enhance the content and impact of your notifications.

WAP Push

WAP Push enables sending URLs to mobile devices, directing users to a specific webpage. This is useful for directing recipients to more detailed information or actions they need to take. SMSEagle’s support for WAP Push links makes it a versatile tool for guiding users to critical online resources even when they are offline.

Radio and TV Broadcasts

Though old school, radio and TV broadcasts are still reliable ways to deliver urgent notifications. Modern versions of these technologies can broadcast emergency alerts widely and efficiently, reach a large audience without relying on internet infrastructure. SMSEagle can complement these traditional methods, a multi-channel approach to notifications.

SMS Notifications with SMSEagle

With 98% of text messages being read within minutes (Crazy Egg), SMS notifications and text messaging services have the highest open rates and engagement in the industry. This immediacy means your messages will reach your audience almost instantly, SMS is a very important communication channel. SMSEagle uses this power, a robust and reliable platform for your SMS notifications.

Plus, SMS notifications via SMSEagle is cost-effective and easy. Sending text messages cost just pennies per message or sometimes even free, a budget friendly solution for all sizes of organizations. Whether you are a small business or a big corporation, the savings of using SMSEagle for your communication needs is huge.

Another advantage of SMS notifications with SMSEagle is the wide reach and accessibility. Text messages can be sent to millions of handsets in seconds, anywhere. This wide reach means your critical messages will reach as many people as possible fast and reliable.

When to Send Text Alerts

There are many scenarios where SMS alerts are useful. You can even create alerts for certain contacts to differentiate message notifications. The Messages app on your phone allows you to customize notification sounds for specific contacts, making it easier to manage important alerts.

For urgent updates and emergency alerts, SMS notifications are best. Whether it’s informing members of your organization, staff or customers about a critical situation, the speed and reliability of SMS ensures your message will get through when it matters most. SMSEagle will send these messages fast and secure.

Scheduled and automated alerts are another perfect use case. Automating IT SMS notifications to send when a script fails for example, will never let you miss an important outage. This proactive approach will keep your operations running smoothly and minimize downtime. SMSEagle’s automation will make this process easy.

AVADAR Project Case Study

The Avadar Project demonstrates the critical role of SMS technology in healthcare and emergency response. The project, aimed at combating malaria in Nigeria, utilized SMSEagle to improve communication and coordination among healthcare workers in remote areas. By sending automated SMS reminders and alerts about medication schedules and health tips, the project significantly increased the adherence to malaria treatment protocols and reduced the incidence of malaria cases. The reliability and speed of SMSEagle’s SMS solutions ensured that crucial information reached healthcare providers and patients promptly, showcasing the system’s potential in enhancing public health initiatives.

How to Build an SMS Alert Strategy with SMSEagle

To get the most out of your SMS notifications, you need to build an alert strategy.

Start by defining your audience. Who needs to receive your SMS notifications so your messages are relevant and reach the right people.

Crafting your SMS content is also important. Keep your messages short, clear and directly relevant to your audience so they will be read and acted upon.

How to Use SMSEagle for SMS Notification

An SMS notification system ensures timely alerts and notifications, making it crucial for effective communication. A free trial is available, try it risk free. SMSEagle is reliable and scalable, your messages will be delivered fast and efficient.

Setting up and managing your SMS alert system should be easy. SMSEagle has a user friendly interface to configure and manage your notifications.

Explore SMSEagle demo device

SMSEagle is a hardware & software solution that guarantees a swift delivery of your messages to designated recipients, whether it’s for notifications, alerts, or important updates.

14-days free trial
Access to physical device

No credit card required
Access to over 20 functionalities

SMS Alerts Use Cases

There are many common use cases for SMS alerts that shows its flexibility and usefulness. These notifications can also be integrated with other apps like Mail, Phone, Messages app, and third party apps to have a comprehensive communication.

Building Management Systems (BMS): Utilizing SMSEagle offers numerous advantages. The platform provides reliable and instant SMS alerts for critical system events, such as equipment failures, security breaches, and environmental condition changes. This ensures that maintenance teams and facility managers are promptly informed, allowing for immediate action to prevent potential damage or downtime. SMSEagle’s scheduled and automated messaging capabilities facilitate routine maintenance reminders and system performance updates, enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the high security and integration capabilities of SMSEagle ensure seamless and secure communication with existing BMS infrastructure, safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining system integrity.

Education and schools: SMSEagle offers significant advantages for enhancing communication and operational efficiency. Schools and educational institutions can use SMSEagle to send immediate SMS alerts and notifications to students, parents, and staff, ensuring timely dissemination of critical information such as school closures, emergency alerts, or schedule changes. The platform’s two-way communication feature allows for interactive engagement, enabling parents and students to respond to queries or provide feedback directly via SMS. Scheduled messaging ensures that reminders for exams, assignments, and school events are sent out automatically, helping students stay organized and informed. SMSEagle’s bulk messaging capability is ideal for distributing newsletters, announcements, and administrative updates to a large audience simultaneously. Integration with school management systems allows for seamless synchronization of data and communication processes.

Factories: SMSEagle offers several advantages that enhance operational efficiency and safety. Real-time SMS alerts and notifications can be sent to maintenance teams and supervisors about critical machinery malfunctions, system errors, or production halts, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly to minimize downtime. The platform’s two-way communication feature allows for immediate feedback and coordination between on-site staff and management, streamlining the troubleshooting and decision-making processes. Scheduled messaging capabilities can automate reminders for routine maintenance checks, safety inspections, and compliance deadlines, helping to maintain optimal operational standards and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Additionally, bulk messaging function is valuable for disseminating important updates, safety instructions, or company announcements to all employees simultaneously, ensuring that everyone is informed and aligned with current operations and protocols. The integration capabilities of SMSEagle enable seamless connectivity with existing factory management systems, enhancing data flow and communication efficiency across different departments. High security ensures that sensitive operational data is transmitted securely, protecting the integrity of factory communications.

Conclusion

In a world where we heavily rely on the internet for communication, it becomes crucial to have a way to send notifications reliably even when we’re offline. That’s where SMSEagle comes in. It’s a standout solution that ensures critical messages reach their intended recipients, no matter if they have internet access or not.

SMSEagle does this by using various technologies like SMS, USSD, MMS, Flash SMS, WAP push and traditional broadcasts. It’s a comprehensive approach that covers all the bases when it comes to delivering important alerts.

With this multi-channel approach, messages will get through even in the toughest conditions. Whether it’s an emergency alert, a scheduled reminder, or a marketing campaign, SMSEagle’s SMS notifications are both reliable and immediate. That’s why it’s an indispensable tool for businesses and organizations alike.

By integrating offline capabilities into your communication strategy, you can ensure that vital information is always delivered, keeping everyone informed and safe. SMSEagle makes it possible to stay connected even when the internet isn’t available.

New Rack Mount for SMSEagle NXS Devices

14 February 2025 No Comments

Online SMS vs. SMSEagle: A Comprehensive Cost Comparison

28 January 2025 No Comments

Reliable Notifications in a Digital World: Going Offline

15 January 2025 No Comments

Niagara 4 alerting limitations [SOLVED]

Posted On 22 October 2024 By Łukasz Siemaszko In Articles /

Niagara 4 alerting limitations [SOLVED]

Niagara 4 is one of the leading building management systems, known for its flexibility and scalability. Its operational efficiency makes it a popular choice for large and medium facilities looking for comprehensive and reliable automation solutions.

However, Niagara 4’s reliance on the Internet for email alerts or app-based alerts, can pose challenges, particularly in offline/isolated environments or during Internet outages. In this article, we will examine these limitations and demonstrate how integrating an SMS & voice solution like SMSEagle can provide reliable communication in emergency situations.

How Niagara 4 Handles Alerts

Alarm Classes and Priorities: Niagara 4 allows you to categorize alarms and assign priorities to them. Each alarm class can be configured with different notification and escalation procedures.
Alarm Sources: Alerts can be triggered from various sources such as sensor data, point values (e.g., temperature, humidity), or any system abnormality that crosses pre-set thresholds.
Alarm Routing: Alarms can be routed to different recipients or destinations based on severity or other factors. These destinations could be local displays, email, SMS, or more.
Alarm Handling:
- Ack Required: Some alerts may require an acknowledgment from an operator to confirm they’ve been received.
- Auto-reset: Alerts can automatically reset when the triggering condition returns to normal.
Alarm Journals: Niagara 4 keeps an alarm history in an Alarm Journal where you can review past alarms and their status (e.g., acknowledged, cleared).
Notification Channels: Alerts can trigger notifications through various channels:
- Email: Alarms can be sent via email notifications
- On-site Interfaces: Local HMIs, control panels, or connected devices can display alarms
- Apps: With third-party integrations, specialized app can be enabled. Installation of specialized apps is required
- SMS: With third-party integrations, easy to deploy SMS alerts can be enabled
- Calls: With third-party integrations, for immediate attention to critical issues, such as severe system malfunctions

Constraints of Email & On-site interface Alerting

There are several limitations associated with using email and on-site interface alerting in a system like Niagara 4. These limitations can affect reliability, response times, and operational efficiency. Here’s an overview of the potential challenges:

Limitations of Email Alerting

1. Internet Dependency: Email alerts require internet access or a mail server connection. If the internet connection is down or slow, email notifications can be delayed or entirely undelivered.
2. Delivery Delays: Emails are not instant and can be delayed by factors such as mail server load, spam filters, or network congestion. This could be problematic for urgent alarms.
3. Email Spam Filters & No Guaranteed Receipt: Some alarms might be marked as spam by the recipient’s email server, leading to alerts being missed. Proper configuration of email servers and whitelisting is required to avoid this. There is no way to ensure the recipient reads the email. Someone could miss the notification in a crowded inbox or ignore it. Email does not guarantee real-time responses to critical alarms.
4. Lack of Immediate Action & Limited Follow-up Actions: Emails are passive notifications. The recipient has to check their email regularly or have push notifications enabled to be aware of the alarms. This may not be suitable for critical, time-sensitive alerts. Once an email alert is sent, there is no built-in mechanism to track whether the alarm has been addressed, acknowledged, or escalated unless you integrate an external system to track responses.
5. Vulnerable to Cyber Threats: Emails can be susceptible to cyber attacks such as phishing, which could compromise the integrity of the alarm system if the email account is accessed maliciously.

Limitations of On-site Interface Alerting

Physical Presence Required: On-site interfaces (like HMIs or control panels) require on-site staff to be physically present before control panel to view or acknowledge the alarm. If personnel are not present in the immediate area, they may not receive the alarm in time, particularly if there are multiple facilities or large sites
No Remote Access: Unlike email alerts that can be accessed from anywhere, on-site interfaces don’t provide remote access. This makes it difficult to manage alerts when operators are off-site or during non-working hours unless remote access is implemented.
Single Point of Failure: If the on-site interface fails or experiences power outages, no one will be able to receive or respond to the alarm notifications. Without redundancy, this creates a risk for important alarms being missed.
Limited Customization: On-site interfaces may have limited capabilities for customizing notifications or escalations. For example, they may not support more complex alarm workflows or integrating advanced alert management systems without additional configuration.
Visual-Only Notifications: Most on-site interfaces are primarily visual. They may not have robust audio alarms or mobile push notifications, which can reduce their effectiveness in getting immediate attention during emergencies.
Capacity Limits: Some interfaces may have limitations on how many active alarms they can display at once, which could cause important alerts to be buried if there’s a flood of alarms or multiple concurrent events.

To sum up:

Email alerts: Are useful for remote notifications but have limitations in terms of internet dependence, reliability, and lack of immediate action.
On-site interface alerts: Are beneficial for local alerting but suffer from requiring physical presence, no remote access, and a potential single point of failure.

For a robust alerting system, combining both methods with other mechanisms (e.g., SMS, voice calls) can help mitigate these limitations and ensure timely and effective alarm management.

How to Build a Complete Alerting Solution for Niagara 4?

Building a comprehensive alerting solution for Niagara 4 should include built-in alarm features and complement them with SMS and/or voice alerts. It will allow significantly improving response times and ensure critical alarms reach the appropriate personnel quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to implement such a solution:

1. Leverage Niagara 4’s Built-in Alarm Features

Niagara 4 already has a robust alarm and alerting system, so the foundation is in place. However, to add SMS and voice alerts, you’ll need third-party integrations or services. Let’s break down the components:

2. Choose a Reliable Third-Party SMS & Voice Solution

To integrate SMS and voice alerts, you may use third-party online service or offline hardware solution. Consider using a hardware SMS gateway if you want to be sure that your system will work even if Internet connection fails or if you have offline/isolated environment. Niagara Marketplace is a comprehensive source of drivers and add-ons suitable for your system.

When selecting the right alerting system, consider the following key factors:

Pre-configured Niagara4 drivers for quick deployment
Ease of integration and implementation
Comprehensive warranty services for hardware
High-quality customer support
High uptime & availability – possibility to configure failover cluster (HA cluster)
Extended device lifespan

Setting Up SMS/Voice Notifications in Niagara 4. Example of Hardware SMS Gateway Integration

SMSEagle devices enable the integration of a complementary SMS and voice notification system into Niagara 4. What do you gain:

Dedicated SMSEagle integration: SMSEagle offers a Niagara 4 driver, making configuration easier. This simplifies your initial work and provides a field-proven solution.
Ease of use: SMS is simple yet effective channel. Every user will receive alerts directly on their phone, regardless of make & model. No need for installing and maintaining dedicated phone apps.
Flexibility of configuration: The driver alllows to send SMS messages to individual numbers or groups. The built-in escalation feature allows to escalate SMS alerts within a group, from user to user in a predefined order. The alert message will be escalated to group members until one of the users responds in time.
HA-cluster: For uptime-critical environments you can easily set up a high-availability cluster of 2 SMSEagle devices. This provides you with an extra layer of protection for any possible hardware failures.
Quality Support: Our knowledgeable support team is equipped with the expertise to solve your problems efficiently; 42% tickets is resolved after one message. With fast service and professional support, we are gaining the trust of new customers every day; that is why they rate us 5/5 in Google.

What can you do thanks to SMSEagle & Niagara 4 integration?

Critical Alarm Notifications

Use case: Send critical alarms (e.g., HVAC failures, severe failures, security breaches) via SMS.
Benefit: Immediate alert delivery, even without the Internet, ensuring quick responses during emergencies.
SMSEagle feature: Automated SMS notifications triggered by specific Niagara 4 alarms.

Backup Communication Channel for Alerts

Use case: Automatically switch to SMS alerts during network outages.
Benefit: Ensures uninterrupted critical notifications during internet failures.
SMSEagle feature: Failover to SMS for continuous alert delivery.

Escalation of Unacknowledged Alarms

Use case: Escalate unacknowledged alarms by sending SMS to higher-level personnel.
Benefit: Ensures critical issues are addressed by escalating if initial responders don’t act.
SMSEagle feature: SMS escalation forwards alerts if the original recipient does not respond.

Multi-Recipient Notifications (Groups)

Use case: Send alarms or updates to multiple users/departments simultaneously.
Benefit: Ensures quick, coordinated responses from relevant teams.
SMSEagle feature: Group SMS allows multiple recipients to receive alerts instantly.

User-Specific Alerting

Use case: Deliver tailored alerts to users based on their roles (e.g., maintenance, security).
Benefit: Reduces alert fatigue by sending only relevant notifications.
SMSEagle feature: Role-based SMS notifications targeted to specific users.

Emergency Shutdown Notifications

Use case: Send SMS alerts during emergency shutdowns (e.g., fire alarms, electrical issues).
Benefit: Prompts immediate action to mitigate emergencies.
SMSEagle feature: Event-triggered SMS alerts for system-wide shutdowns.

Scheduled System Maintenance Alerts

Use case: Notify users of scheduled maintenance via SMS (e.g., HVAC downtime).
Benefit: Prevents unexpected disruptions by informing teams ahead of time.
SMSEagle feature: Scheduled SMS notifications for maintenance reminders.

Voice Alerts

Use case: Text-to-speech voice messages to building management and maintenance teams for immediate attention to critical issues
Benefit: Prompt action and resolution especially after hours or weekends
SMSEagle feature: Voice add-on which allows automated text-to-speech conversion.

Wake-up calls

Use case: Wake Up Calls are ring-only phone calls designed to notify maintenace staff about important events
Benefit: Key personnel is informed and ready to respond promptly even during a night.
SMSEagle feature: Voice add-on which allows automated ring (wake-up) calls.

Explore SMSEagle demo device

SMSEagle is a hardware & software solution that guarantees a swift delivery of your messages to designated recipients, whether it’s for notifications, alerts, or important updates.

14-days free trial
Access to physical device

No credit card required
Access to over 20 functionalities

Deputies

Definition and Explanation

Internet dependency refers to the reliance of modern systems, including building automation systems (BAS), on internet connectivity to function effectively. This dependency has become increasingly prevalent with the widespread adoption of IoT devices and cloud-based services. In the context of building automation, internet dependency enables systems integrators to remotely monitor and control systems, analyze operational data, and perform management tasks more efficiently. By leveraging internet connectivity, building systems can transmit vast amounts of operational data to the cloud or central servers, allowing for real-time analysis and decision-making. This connectivity also facilitates seamless integration with third-party vendors and enhances the overall user experience through advanced UX frameworks and mobile applications.

Causes of Internet Dependency

The causes of internet dependency in building automation systems can be attributed to several factors:

Increased adoption of IoT devices: The proliferation of IoT devices has led to a significant increase in the amount of operational data generated by building systems. This data needs to be transmitted to the cloud or a central server for analysis, making internet connectivity essential. Intelligent edge devices collect and send data, enabling systems integrators to monitor and manage building operations remotely.
Cloud-based services: The shift towards cloud-based services has enabled systems integrators to access and manage building systems remotely, reducing the need for on-site visits and increasing efficiency. Cloud platforms provide a centralized location for data storage and analysis, allowing for greater volumes of data to be processed and utilized effectively.
Advancements in UX framework: The development of user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps has made it easier for users to interact with building systems, leading to increased reliance on internet connectivity. These advancements in UX frameworks ensure that users can access and control building systems from anywhere, enhancing convenience and operational efficiency.

Integration with third-party vendors: The need to integrate building systems with third-party vendors, such as energy management systems or security systems, has driven the adoption of internet-dependent solutions. This integration allows for a more comprehensive approach to building management, where various systems work together seamlessly to optimize performance and efficiency.

Effects of Internet Dependency

Positive Effects

Improved efficiency: Internet dependency has enabled systems integrators to remotely monitor and control building systems, reducing the need for on-site visits and increasing efficiency. This remote access allows for quicker response times and more proactive management of building operations.
Enhanced data analysis: The ability to analyze operational data in real-time has enabled building owners and managers to make data-driven decisions, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced costs. By leveraging advanced analytics tools, users can identify trends, detect anomalies, and optimize system performance.

Increased scalability: Internet-dependent solutions have enabled building systems to scale more easily, making it possible to integrate new devices and systems as needed. This scalability ensures that building automation systems can grow and adapt to changing requirements without significant disruptions.

Negative Effects

Cybersecurity risks: Internet dependency has introduced new cybersecurity risks, including the potential for hacking and data breaches. As building systems become more connected, they become more vulnerable to cyber threats, necessitating robust security measures.
Downtime and outages: Internet outages or downtime can have significant impacts on building operations, leading to reduced efficiency and increased costs. Without a stable internet connection, critical functions such as remote monitoring and control may be disrupted.
Dependence on third-party vendors: The reliance on third-party vendors for internet-dependent solutions can lead to vendor lock-in and reduced flexibility. Building owners and managers may find it challenging to switch vendors or adopt new technologies without significant effort and expense.

Conclusion

Integrating SMSEagle with Niagara 4 significantly enhances communication capabilities by providing SMS & voice notifications that are fast, reliable, and accessible, particularly in emergencies or during network outages. SMSEagle enables fast communication, automated reports, and multi-recipient alerts, ensuring Niagara 4 users can efficiently manage and monitor their building systems. This integration adds layers of reliability, flexibility, and accessibility, especially in remote locations or mission-critical environments.

New Rack Mount for SMSEagle NXS Devices

14 February 2025

Online SMS vs. SMSEagle: A Comprehensive Cost Comparison

28 January 2025

Reliable Notifications in a Digital World: Going Offline

15 January 2025

Why VoIP Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Combining VoIP with SMS

Posted On 11 October 2024 By Patryk Patej In Articles /

Why VoIP Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Combining VoIP with SMS

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has revolutionized business communication by enabling real-time, affordable conversations over the internet.

Unlike traditional telephony that relies on the public switched telephone network (PSTN), VoIP utilizes internet connections, avoiding the higher costs and call quality limitations of circuit-switched networks. A broadband internet connection is essential for VoIP services to function effectively, ensuring stable and reliable voice calls. However, relying solely on a VoIP service may limit your business’s scalability and efficiency. This is where SMS integration steps in—bridging the gaps VoIP services leave behind, creating a more comprehensive communication system.

What is VoIP?

Definition of VoIP

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a transformative technology that allows voice communications to be conducted over the internet. Also known as Voice over IP, virtual telephony, cloud phone, or online phone system, VoIP phone systems are cloud-based, making them accessible on any device and from any location with a reliable broadband internet connection. This flexibility is a significant advantage for modern businesses, enabling seamless communication regardless of physical location.

How VoIP Works

VoIP operates by converting outbound voice audio into digital data packets, which are then transmitted to their destination via the internet. This process involves VoIP codecs, which compress and decompress the voice data packets to facilitate efficient two-way travel over IP networks, whether they are wide area networks (WAN) or local area networks (LAN). These codecs ensure that voice signals are transmitted between devices with minimal latency and jitter, providing high-definition audio quality that rivals traditional phone systems.

The Strengths of Voice Over Internet Protocol and Its Shortcomings

VoIP is a powerful tool that offers numerous benefits to modern businesses. These include cost savings compared to traditional phone systems, the flexibility to work from anywhere with a broadband connection, and advanced VoIP phone system features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and integration with CRM systems. These capabilities make it an excellent choice for organizations looking to streamline their communication using VoIP technology.

However, VoIP also comes with limitations that can hinder its effectiveness in some situations:

Lack of Documentation
VoIP systems do not automatically provide a record of conversations, making it difficult to track verbal agreements or discussions for future reference.

Challenges with Real-Time Availability
VoIP relies on real-time presence, meaning missed calls can disrupt the flow of communication, delaying updates and causing inefficiencies.

Scalability Issues
Handling a large volume of VoIP calls can strain VoIP phone systems, impacting their ability to manage peak traffic efficiently.

Manual Processes
VoIP systems often require manual intervention for tasks like scheduling calls or sending reminders, reducing overall productivity.

Language Barriers
VoIP calls can suffer from language differences, accents, or background noise, making it hard to ensure message clarity, especially in international communications.

Limited Multimedia Support
VoIP is mainly voice-based and lacks built-in support for multimedia sharing, which can limit its use in visually-driven industries.

Advantages of VoIP

Cost Savings

One of the most compelling advantages of VoIP is its potential for cost savings. By transitioning to a VoIP service provider, businesses can significantly reduce their monthly phone expenses. VoIP solutions are typically more affordable than traditional phone systems, with lower initial setup costs and reduced long-term expenses associated with managing and maintaining an on-premises PBX system. Additionally, VoIP services often come bundled with advanced features such as caller ID, call screening, and multi-level IVR, which can be costly add-ons for traditional landline services. This makes VoIP an economically attractive option for businesses looking to optimize their communication infrastructure.

The Benefits of Combining VoIP Service Provider with SMS

By integrating SMS with VoIP, businesses can create a more versatile and efficient communication system that addresses VoIP’s shortcomings. Here’s a look at how SMS complements and enhances VoIP functionality:

Lack of Documentation → Automatic Record-Keeping
SMS can provide a written log of conversations, which can serve as proof of agreements, follow-ups, or instructions, making it easier to track interactions using VoIP services.

Real-Time Availability Challenges → Immediate Follow-Ups
Missed a call? Send an automatic SMS follow-up, ensuring that communication continues without delay even when using VoIP service providers.

Scalability Issues → Handling High Volumes Seamlessly
SMS can automate routine notifications like order updates, freeing up VoIP lines for more complex inquiries, thus enhancing scalability.

Manual Processes → Automation for Routine Tasks
Scheduling, reminders, and routine updates can all be automated with SMS, saving time and improving operational efficiency when integrated with a VoIP provider.

Language Barriers → Written Clarity
SMS provides a text-based option that can be translated or reviewed as needed, making communication clearer for non-native speakers compared to relying solely on voice communications.

Limited Multimedia Support → Richer Communication Options
SMS can carry multimedia messages, allowing businesses to send images, documents, and other files that VoIP alone cannot handle. This makes it an ideal solution when VoIP systems need to support visually-driven industries.

Industry Use Cases for Combining VoIP Phone System and SMS

Below are expanded use cases for how different industries can benefit from using a VoIP phone system in tandem with SMS:

Customer Service

SMS: Automate updates like order confirmations, shipping alerts, and satisfaction surveys.
VoIP: Use for personalized follow-ups for high-value orders, handling sensitive customer concerns, or resolving complex issues. High-quality VoIP phones play a crucial role in providing these personalized follow-ups and handling sensitive customer concerns effectively. This combination ensures customers receive both immediate updates and personalized support when needed.