Batch Messaging Options

There are a few options you can adjust for when sending multiple text messages from the Phone List reports (also known as "batch texting" -- we prefer not to use the term "mass text" since this isn't to be used for spam).  These options are found in Maintenance / Text Messaging Setup / Batch messaging options.

"Send in groups of..." and "Pause for..." settings

These are used to define the size of the "fast" batches and how long to pause between each group.  For instance, it may send 10 at a time, with a 5-second pause between them.  This is partly to allow you a chance to cancel during sending (during each pause period), but is also helpful in keeping your messaging provider from flagging you as sending spam.  The recommended settings are groups of 5, with a 5-second pause.  While it may be tempting to use a large group size and/or small pause to make it go fast, be very careful with this as your messaging provider may not be happy with it, possibly causing cancellation of service.

NOTE: The "groups" size is the number of Customers, not messages.  Since each customer could have as many as 3 phone numbers opted in for texting, a group size of 5 can really mean as many as 15 text messages sent as a group.

Audit Trail includes full message text

Normally (for single text messages), the Audit Trail includes a full copy of every text message sent.  However this isn't recommended when sending batches due to the amount of space it would take, so this option is off by default.  If you really want it turned on you can do so.

Also keep in mind that with this turned off, the Audit Trail will still show each text sent but will simply include the Form name for reference.  Also, if it's a free-form message (entered at the time of sending rather than a pre-defined Form), then the full text will be shown in the Audit Trail's "Preparing to send" entry for the batch.

Additional Topics:

Text Messaging Setup

Send Text Message

Batch Texting

Texting Receipts