Match the entry point to the placement

An SMS entry point connects a website visit, printed piece, social post, or outbound message to a text conversation. Choose it around what the customer can do at that moment.

A printed sign needs a scannable QR code and a short explanation. A mobile webpage can offer a tap-to-text link. A desktop page needs a bridge to the visitor’s phone. Each route should lead to a campaign with a defined purpose and next step.

Use QR codes for physical placements

Dynamic QR codes can connect signs, mailers, event materials, and printed offers to an SMS campaign. Give each placement its own source so reporting can distinguish a front-desk sign from a postcard or event booth.

Print a clear call to action beside the code and test the final artwork from the distance customers will use it. The QR code setup guide explains how to create the code in TextingOnly.

Use SmartLinks across mobile and desktop

A SmartLink provides a device-aware route into the same campaign. Mobile visitors can open their Messages app. Desktop visitors can scan a QR bridge and continue on their phone.

Use the link in email, social profiles, paid campaigns, or website buttons. Keep the destination and call to action consistent with the offer the visitor just saw. Read what a SmartLink does before publishing it.

Route contacts to a relevant conversation

The entry point gets someone to the conversation. OTTO then follows the configured flow: a numbered ITR menu, a short intake sequence, or a language choice. The multilingual collector demonstration on this page shows one example of the flows an entry point can start.

Ask the questions needed for the next step. A quote request may need a service type and location. An event registration may need a name and session choice. Keep the handoff clear so the contact knows whether to expect information, an appointment, or a team response.

Test the journey and retain the source

Test each placement from start to finish before launch: scan or tap, open the message, send it, complete the flow, and check the resulting contact record. Verify both the mobile and desktop paths.

Review starts, replies, completion, and outcomes by source using interaction tracking. The scans and clicks guide explains the entry-point reporting. Keep consent and preference records with the contact so future outreach follows the permission they gave.