SMS Tracking via Virtual Long Code Gateway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for SMS communication are inadequate for tracking and reporting purposes, particularly in enterprise settings, due to lack of easy solutions for tracing messages and compliance with regulations, especially in Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environments where multiple carriers and devices are involved.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a long code as a virtual phone number for routing SMS messages through an SMS gateway and archiving system, allowing for secure, managed, and compliant tracking of messages between employees and customers, with the ability to route messages securely and retain company ownership of phone numbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If SMS messages are sent directly from mobile device to carrier, then communication speed is improved, but tracking and reporting capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an enterprise-controlled gateway as an intermediary component between the mobile device and carrier networks. This gateway intercepts SMS messages, routes them through enterprise infrastructure, and maintains archives for compliance tracking. The gateway acts as a mediator that preserves both the speed of direct carrier communication and the tracking capability required by regulations.
2Loss of information
If carrier arrangements are made for SMS reporting, then tracking capability is improved, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking and reporting functionality from the carrier infrastructure and places it within enterprise-controlled systems. By taking out the archiving and reporting capabilities from the carrier domain and implementing them in the enterprise domain, the system eliminates the need for complex carrier arrangements while maintaining full tracking capability.
3Ease of operation
If BYOD policy is implemented, then employee convenience is improved, but message routing control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the enterprise gateway monitors and tracks all SMS communications passing through it, regardless of the device or carrier used. This feedback loop provides the enterprise with visibility and control over message routing while allowing employees to use their own devices and carriers, thus maintaining both convenience and control.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple carriers are supported, then adaptability is improved, but tracking implementation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal enterprise gateway that can handle SMS messages from multiple carriers through a single standardized interface. The gateway is designed with multi-functional capabilities to intercept, route, and archive messages regardless of which carrier they originate from, thus providing adaptability to multiple carriers while simplifying the tracking implementation through a unified system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method are provided for tracking messages communicated using mobile devices. A message received at a server is originated at a first mobile device and is sent by the first mobile device to a virtual number associated with a software module configured to run as an application on a second mobile device having a phone number. At the server, it is determined that the virtual number is associated with the software module on the second mobile device. With the server, the message is sent to the software module on the second mobile device, and at the server, the message is logged. The virtual number can comprise a long code. The message can be a short messaging service (SMS) message, a voice communication or an email.