Test Sends for SMS Campaigns
TL;DR:
- Test sends catch broken links, formatting problems, and typos before they reach your audience
- Send test messages to your own number to see exactly what recipients will receive
- Check messages on different phone models when possible for the best coverage
- Test the entire workflow, including timing and click-through functionality
- Most platforms let you send tests to multiple numbers for broader feedback
Testing your SMS campaigns before launch stops embarrassing mistakes from reaching your customers. A quick test to your own phone shows you exactly what your message looks like and whether everything works as intended.
Why Test Your SMS Campaigns
Your brand reputation lives or dies by the details. One broken link or garbled message can undermine weeks of careful planning. Test sends catch these problems while you can still fix them.
Beyond just checking for errors, test messages help you understand the complete user experience. You'll see how long your message takes to arrive, whether links work properly, and if your formatting looks right on actual devices.
How to Run Test Sends
Pick your test numbers: Start with your own mobile number. Add team members' numbers if you want broader feedback, but your own phone gives you the clearest picture of what customers will see.
Send exactly as planned: Use the same process you'll use for the live campaign. This tests your entire workflow, not just the message content.
Check everything: When the test arrives, tap any links to make sure they work. Check how the message displays on your screen. Look for typos, weird spacing, or anything that seems off.
Test on different devices: iPhones and Android phones can display messages differently. If you have access to both, send tests to each type.
Common Issues Test Sends Catch
Link problems: URLs that worked fine when you typed them might break when sent via SMS. Links can get cut off in longer messages or might not format properly.
Character limits: SMS has strict character limits. Go over the limit and your message might split into multiple texts or get cut off entirely.
Special characters: Emojis and symbols can cause formatting issues on some phones. What looks great on your computer might appear as question marks on mobile devices.
Timing issues: Test sends show you how quickly messages actually deliver, which matters if you're coordinating with other marketing activities.
FAQs
Can I send test messages to multiple people?
Yes, most platforms let you add several test numbers. This helps you gather feedback and see how messages appear across different devices and networks.
Do test messages count against my SMS allowance?
Usually yes, test messages use credits from your account just like regular campaigns. Factor this into your testing approach.
How many test messages should I send?
Send enough to feel confident, but don't go overboard. One or two tests per major message variation usually covers your bases.
Can I schedule test messages?
Many platforms support scheduled test sends. This lets you experience exactly what your campaign timing will feel like.
What if my test message looks different than expected?
Go back and adjust your campaign setup. Keep testing until the message appears exactly as you want recipients to see it.
Jargon Buster
SMS (Short Message Service): The technical name for text messaging between mobile phones.
Campaign Setup: The process of creating and configuring your message campaign before sending.
Test Sends: Practice messages sent to yourself or team members before launching to your full audience.
Character Limit: The maximum number of characters allowed in a single SMS message, typically 160 characters.
Wrap-up
Test sends take five minutes but save you from costly mistakes. They're your safety net against broken campaigns and embarrassing errors. Make testing part of your standard workflow and you'll launch campaigns with confidence every time.
Learn about QuickSMS https://www.quicksms.com/