How to Set Up an SMS Campaign in Ostana

Last updated: June 12, 2025

SMS Campaign

SMS campaigns are a powerful way to directly reach your customers with time-sensitive offers, announcements, or personalized rewards. With Ostana, you can create and launch SMS campaigns quickly using built-in templates or your own custom messages.

✅ Step-by-Step: Creating an SMS Campaign

🔹 Step 1: Access the Campaign Builder

  1. Log into the Ostana Dashboard
    Navigate to your business dashboard at https://portal.ostana.io.

  2. Click “Campaigns”
    From the left-hand menu, select “Campaigns”.

  3. Click “Create Campaign”
    Choose the SMS option when prompted to select your campaign type.

🔹 Step 2: Set Campaign Basics

  1. Enter Campaign Name
    Choose a name for internal tracking (e.g., “Weekend Flash Deal” or “Birthday Bonus SMS”).

  2. Write Your Message
    Keep it short, clear, and action-driven.
    You can include dynamic fields like:

    • {{first_name}}

    • {{points_balance}}

    • {{business_name}}

    ✍ Example:

    Hey {{first_name}}, you've got 500 points waiting! Redeem now at {{business_name}}. Link: [your link]

  3. Add Call-to-Action (Optional)
    Include a link, discount code, or special text for redemptions.

🔹 Step 3: Choose Your Audience

  1. Select Target Audience
    Filter by:

    • All customers

    • Specific tiers (e.g., Gold, VIP)

  2. Set Send Time

    • Immediate: Send right away

    • Schedule: Choose a specific date and time

🔹 Step 4: Review & Send

  1. Preview the Message
    Confirm how it will look using sample data from your member list.

  2. Confirm SMS Compliance Settings

  • Ensure you have customer consent to send SMS.

  • Include opt-out language if required by law (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe").

  1. Click “Send Campaign”
    Or click “Schedule Campaign” if set for a future time.

🎉 Your campaign will now be sent to all eligible recipients!

🧠 SMS Campaign Best Practices

  • ✂ Keep messages under 160 characters to avoid splitting.

  • 🕓 Send at optimal times — midday and late afternoon work well.

  • 📊 Track performance: Monitor open rates, click-throughs, and redemptions post-send.

🔍 FAQs

Q: Can I send SMS to international numbers?
Yes, as long as the country is supported by Ostana and the recipient has opted in. Fees may vary.

Q: Can I include links in my SMS?
Absolutely! Use a shortened or branded link for better engagement.

Q: How often should I send SMS?
Start with 1–2 campaigns per month and increase based on engagement. Avoid spamming your list.

🛠 Troubleshooting

  • Message didn’t send?

    • Check if phone numbers were formatted correctly

    • Confirm customer has opted in to receive SMS

    • Review your plan’s SMS quota (if applicable)

  • Campaign shows low delivery?

    • Check for outdated or incorrect contact numbers

    • Use segmentation to target only active customers