Creating SMS Text Templates

NOTE: This feature is available in the Essential, Professional, and Enterprise versions of both Spectra and Stratus Desktop.

You can use the Form Letter Builder to create templates specifically for your text messages. Although you can send any form letter as a text message, it can not include images, and it’s best to create shorter versions that stay within the 160 character limit.

Creating an SMS Text Template #

Here’s an example of how to create an SMS template with the Form Letter Builder. See also: Form Letter Builder

1. Go to Tools > Design Tools > Form Letter Builder.

2. Click Add to create a new form letter.

3. Enter the basic properties of the form letter. Here are some recommendations:

   • Include “Text” or “SMS” in the description. This will make it easier for you to choose the correct letter when sending texts.

   • The subject will not be included in the text message, however, this field may be useful when viewing messages on the Messages hub.

   • Create a special (short) signature just for texts if you choose to append a signature.

4. Click OK to save the properties and open the text editor.

5. Use the text editor to type in your message. Here are some recommendations:

   • Don’t worry about using the formatting tools. They won’t matter in a text message.

   • Insert data fields! The software will automatically merge the individual client information into each text message you send! (See the sample below.)

   • Add a phone number or email address to make it easy for your clients to contact you directly, instead of requiring them to reply to the text message.

6. Save the form letter when finished.

Sample SMS Template #

Here’s my text message in the Form Letter Builder:

This is what it looks like when sent to a client: