System to reply to SMS keywords

Wings_of_Ambition

Hi there,

A local youth group I attend is looking at running a system where young people will be able to text a keyword to a number, and get a standard response. For example, if they have had unprotected sex, they can text a keyword, i.e. 'TEST', and will get an automated response detailing where they can go locally for an STI test.

The youth group are looking at a company which will set-up the system and offer support if there are any glitches/problems/crashes, although this company is charging quite a hefty sum for its services.

I was wondering if we could do it ourselves. How difficult is it to set up a system to offer automated responses to keywords? Is it something a small group could do, or is this ultra-complicated? Is expensive equipment required?

Advice appreciated

WoA

electron_3

http://www.csoft.co.uk/ Maybe asking these guys.

Wings_of_Ambition

Thanks the for the link.

Any thoughts on difficulty and cost of setting something up ourselves where we're not paying someone else to do it all? (not sure csoft would be willing to give away their secrets!)

devils_spawn

You will need the backing of a Mobile Phone network to send the SMS - to do this yourselves would cost a small fortune.

However - as it is to do with youths, might be worthwhile giving getconnected (http://www.getconnected.org.uk/) a call to see if they are interested in helping.

loftx

It is possible with any old mobile phone, though be prepared to pay standard rates (10p per text). You'll need automation software like http://www.promixis.com/, and a mobile which can be connected using the drivers available - this might be the problem.

I had it working with a nokia 3310, a serial data cable and the (old) freeware version of the software from this site, though this was years ago - I don't know if it works with modern phones.