Triggers: SMS Triggers

Triggers can be created to utilize SMS (text messages) that are sent to Omnilert's short code (79516). When a text arrives with a designated "keyword", the system will launch the linked Scenario.

The settings for an SMS Trigger are:

• Trigger keyword: Must be a unique string (numerals and letters only) at least 5 characters long. Keywords are "first come, first serve", so common words will be unavailable.
  
  We recommend using a keyword that is clearly your own, unique activation word and not using a common dictionary word. (Using common dictionary words as keywords will likely lead to accidental triggering.)
  
  
• Allowed Phone Numbers: The mobile numbers allowed to use this trigger. As triggers are very powerful, we advise limiting the allowed numbers to only those that you trust to launch a scenario, unless you're planning to open the keyword to the general public. For multiple allowed numbers, place each on its own line in the box.
  
  
• "No Numbers Needed": This special setting allows ANY number send a text to your keyword and initiate the linked scenario. This is commonly used to set up "text-a-tip" systems. (See "SMS Trigger Variables" below for info on relaying texts.)

Why would anyone ever want to use "No Numbers Needed"?

Typically you would use this option to set up a "text-a-tip" system where end-users can text their tips in and the content can be relayed to a private group within your account.

SMS Trigger Variables

Omnilert includes the ability to relay content from the incoming (triggering) text message. This content can be inserted into your outgoing message content, much like a text variable.

You can create a custom message from this trigger by using the following variables in your saved action messages for this scenario:

• {{sms_number}} This variable will be replaced by the sending phone number.
• {{sms_body}} This variable will be replaced by the SMS 'Message'.

These variables can be used to relay incoming texts to a specific group of recipients via a Scenario.

Some uses for this technology:

• Relaying weather alert texts from automated weather monitoring systems
• Relaying alarm texts from alarm systems
• Creating a simple "text-a-tip" program, where the public can text their tips to your triggering keyword and then your Scenario can relay that tip to a group of team members.