SMS Functionality

SMS Functionality

Purpose of Email Functionality In AdviceOS

Midwinter understands that no financial planning software will be able to match the capabilities of an established email system such as Outlook or Gmail. Consequently, the email functionality within AdviceOS is designed to work and interact as a complimentary platform with your chosen email system to ensure important communications can be stored efficiently.

Its focus is to ensure that only emails that are pertinent to your financial planning process can be stored in AdviceOS to both prevent irrelevant information on your clients profile & protect your AdviceOS from potential spam. 

Additionally, the functionality in AdviceOS is designed to allow users to selectively store email communications that they consider relevant. 

How to send a SMS from Advice OS

On the Home screen click on the Send Email option.


Change the toggle to SMS to send the message as an SMS to your client.
To send the SMS, the users can either use the verified mobile number that is listed in their user profiles or use their registered Alpha Tag.

Important Update: Changes to SMS Messaging in AdviceOS

The way SMS messages are sent through AdviceOS will change from the beginning of April 2024. Due to changes in the Spam Code, we will be implementing a new verification process for all users sending SMS messages from AdviceOS.

Effective from April, all users sending SMS messages via AdviceOS will be required to verify their mobile number. This change is in response to updates to the Spam Code, as outlined by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

The Spam Code aims to protect consumers from unsolicited and potentially harmful messages, while also ensuring that legitimate businesses can continue to use SMS as an effective communication tool. By requiring users to verify their mobile numbers, message services are required to take steps to prevent spam and maintain the integrity of the SMS messaging system.

Here's what you need to know about the verification process:

  • Verification Requirement: Starting from April, all users sending SMS messages through AdviceOS will need to verify their mobile number. This verification process will be a one-time requirement and will help ensure that only authorised users can send SMS messages through the platform.  Re-verification will occur once every 12 months.
  • Enhanced Security: Upon sending an SMS message for the first time after the verification process comes into effect, users will receive a verification code to their registered mobile number. They will be prompted to enter this code in AdviceOS to confirm the validity of their mobile number.
  • Preventing Spam: Spam messages not only inconvenience recipients but can also harm the reputation of businesses sending them. By implementing this verification process, we aim to reduce the incidence of spam and maintain a positive user experience for both senders and recipients of SMS messages.

We understand that these changes may require some adjustment, but we believe they are necessary to uphold industry standards and ensure the continued effectiveness of SMS communication.


How to verify your mobile number


 To verify your mobile number in AdviceOS, you will need to navigate to User management > User configuration > Register for text messaging.

     
The mobile number associated with your User Profile will be pre-populated. From here you will need to Request a two factor authentication code, which will be sent to your mobile number for validation. This code will be valid for 24hrs, after which you will need to request a new code. Input this code into the available field and Confirm, your mobile number will then be registered for 12 months.




 If you experience any issues in this process, or do not have a mobile number associated with your User Profile please reach out to our support team via info@midwinter.com.au.


Using an Alpha tag to send an SMS


Any user who wishes to send an SMS using the Sender ID needs to have a registered Alpha Tag within Advice OS otherwise the SMS will fail and will not be delivered. The Alpha tag could be between 3- 11 characteristics. This change is due to the obligations placed on all carriers and carriage service providers by Australian Commissions and Media Authority (ACMA) to protect the consumers from harm caused by scams,  



If you do not have a registered Alpha Tag, you will get a warning once you select the SMS display name (max 11 characters) option. To register it, simply generate a request by clicking on the Request your Alpha Tag Registration and providing us with the display name (Alpha Tag) that you would like to register for your users on Advice OS.





Alternatively you can send the details via email at info@midinter.com.au and the Support team can initiate the Alpha Tag registration process for you.

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