Skip to main content

Search

We are excited to announce the launch of updated product names, logos, and headers within our user interfaces as part of the CivicPlus® Solution Rebranding initiative. These changes mark the first step toward creating a cohesive and seamless user experience across all solutions in our portfolio. As part of this transition, users may notice minor design updates. While the functionality you rely on remains unchanged, we are in the process of updating screenshots and other resources on our Help Centers to reflect the new branding. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to complete these updates.

SMS and SMTP Messages

  • Updated:

This article will discuss how our Mass Notification System (formerly CivicReady), utilizes SMS (Short Message Service) and SMTP (Simple Mail Transport Protocol) text messaging technologies.

 

Defining SMS and SMTP

SMS (Short Message Service)

SMS is a message system designed for cellular phones. Unlike email, SMS messages are sent to phone numbers, not addresses. They are routed through a gateway, which connects directly to the carrier's network. In order to receive SMS messages, the recipient must first give permission by text and agree to the terms.

 

There is a 160-character limit for SMS messages. View the Text Message Best Practices article for more information.

 

SMTP (Simple Mail Transport Protocol)

SMTP is the standard for email on the internet. Most cell phones can receive text messages in this format. In essence, the phone receives an email, and in fact, a message delivered in this fashion is sent to an address like "12125551234@mycarrier.com."

 

Weather Notifications

Weather Notifications from Weather Integrations

Alerts sent to subscribers or contacts using Weather Integrations will be sent by SMS.

 

Weather Notifications from the National Weather Service (NWS)

Alerts sent to subscribers or contacts generated directly through subscription by signing up on an agency's web portal will be sent by SMTP.

 

Internal Notifications

Alerts sent to internal groups or contacts from the Send Alert form or the legacy Send Internal Alert form will be sent by SMS.

 

Public Notifications

Alerts sent to public groups or contacts from the Send Alert form will be sent by SMS. Public Notifications sent by the legacy Send Public Alert form will be sent by SMTP.

Comments

Let us know what was helpful or not helpful about the article.

0 comments

Please sign in to leave a comment.