Text Messaging – What Are “Short Numbers” and How do they Work?
After receiving several text messages on my phone from a “short” number and seeing “zillions” of commercials and programs advertising sending a message to a short 5 or 6 digit number, I wondered how these actually work. After a little research, I found a lot of great information that I thought you might find interesting.

Is there a formal name for this technology?
Yes. These numbers are called “Common Short Code” or CSC.

How do CSCs work?
A wireless subscriber addresses a text message to the CSC number (e.g., 55555), enters code into messages as directed and sends the message. The message is routed through the wireless service provider’s network to the text (SMS) messaging server. The wireless service provider’s SMS messaging server then determines where to route the message based on the CSC and which application provider corresponds to the CSC. The application receives the message and routes it through the software application, which could include sending a confirmation or follow-up message back to the wireless subscriber who originated the message.

Why are keywords sometimes used with CSCs? Keywords are included with the short code (for example, “55555” with a keyword of “Homes”) and allows a CSC to be shared by more than one company or division. Sharing of a CSC is often done for cost savings and management reasons.

Are all CSCs supported by all wireless carriers? This depends on the wireless carrier, but most CSCs are supported.

Are CSCs expensive? That depends on your definition of expensive. Random CSCs are $500 per month, while specific CSC numbers are $1000 per month to lease. Additional development costs from an application provider to integrate into software would also apply to be able to receive the data in a useable format.

For more details on short codes visit http://www.usshortcodes.com.

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