Question

Many businesses use ________ , an easy to remember 5 or 6 digit number, instead of telephone numbers when creating text message (SMS) services. For example, voting on the popular television show American Idol is done using this approach.

Answer 1

Many businesses use shortcodes, an easy-to-remember 5 or 6 digit number, instead of telephone numbers when creating text message (SMS) services. For example, voting on the popular television show American Idol is done using this approach.

Step-by-step explanation:

Shortcodes are abbreviated phone numbers, typically 5 or 6 digits long, that businesses and organizations use for SMS services. They serve as a convenient and memorable alternative to traditional phone numbers. The use of shortcodes has become widespread in various industries, including television shows like American Idol, where viewers can vote for their favorite contestants by sending a text message to a specific shortcode.

The advantage of using shortcodes lies in their simplicity and ease of recall. Unlike full-length phone numbers, which can be complex and difficult to remember, shortcodes provide a concise and user-friendly way for individuals to engage with SMS services. Businesses leverage shortcodes for marketing campaigns, customer support, and interactive services due to their effectiveness in facilitating quick and straightforward communication.

American Idol's use of shortcodes for voting exemplifies how this approach streamlines audience participation. Viewers only need to send a text with the contestant's code to the designated shortcode, simplifying the voting process. Overall, shortcodes offer a practical solution for businesses and organizations seeking efficient and user-friendly communication channels, enhancing engagement and interaction with their audience.

Answer 2

Businesses use short codes, a memorable 5 or 6 digit number, for text message services instead of traditional phone numbers, making communication more efficient and engaging for consumers. This preference aligns with the global trend of increased mobile usage and text communication, especially among younger generations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Many businesses use short codes, an easy to remember 5 or 6 digit number, instead of telephone numbers when creating text message (SMS) services. For example, voting on the popular television show American Idol is done using this approach. Short codes are preferred because they are easier to remember and faster to enter, which is a technique related to chunking in memory psychology. This is especially relevant as communications technology evolves and companies strive to engage with consumers efficiently.

With the rise of mobile phone usage and messaging becoming the primary mode of communication, particularly among younger generations, businesses capitalize on short codes for marketing and reaching out to potential customers. As the number of mobile phone users worldwide expands, leveraging short codes becomes a strategic advantage for businesses looking to tap into the massive audience who prefer text-based communication over traditional phone calls.