Universal Short Code Administration for Cross-Carrier SMS Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Short codes in mobile telephone networks are limited to specific service providers, restricting their market penetration and leading to skewed results in applications like tele-voting, as only subscribers of the owning provider can participate.
Innovation Solution
A centralized SMS Universal Short Code Administrator manages a database of available short codes, leasing them to Application Providers for specific periods, allowing the same codes to be used across different service providers through a Network Facilitator that routes messages to the correct destination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If each service provider uses its own exclusive short codes, then service provider control and code management simplicity is improved, but market penetration and application fairness deteriorate because only that provider's subscribers can participate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal short code system where a single short code can serve multiple service providers and applications. The centralized administrator allocates short codes dynamically to different application providers based on demand, allowing the same short code to be reused across different carriers and services at different times, thereby achieving universal applicability and maximizing market penetration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized short code administrator as an intermediary entity that manages the allocation and assignment of short codes between service providers and application providers. This mediator resolves the conflict between exclusive provider control and universal accessibility by implementing a fair, transparent allocation process that serves all carriers equally while maintaining service provider autonomy
2Quantity of substance
If a centralized administrator manages all short codes, then code availability and market reach are improved, but system complexity and administrative overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the short code management functions of all service providers into a single centralized administrator. By consolidating the allocation, assignment, and tracking of short codes under one unified system, the patent ensures comprehensive code availability and prevents duplication or conflicts, while the standardized processes keep administrative complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter management where short code assignments are not static but can be changed, renewed, or revoked based on demand. The centralized administrator can adjust allocation parameters, lease durations, and code assignments flexibly, ensuring optimal code utilization and availability without requiring a rigid, complex permanent assignment structure
3Productivity
If short codes are leased for specific periods, then code utilization efficiency is improved, but management complexity and tracking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic leasing of short codes where allocation rights are granted for specific time periods rather than permanently. This periodic structure allows the centralized administrator to regularly review and reallocate codes based on current demand, ensuring high utilization efficiency while the systematic renewal process keeps tracking manageable through automated workflows
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for assigning a short codes to provide uniformity among wireless carriers. In the systems and methods, a Universal Short Code (USC) Administrator maintains a list of short codes and their lease status so that SMS messages sent to a particular short code may be routed to the proper holder of the short code. A network facilitator is in communication with both the USC Administrator and at least one wireless carrier to route the SMS message to the proper holder of the short code. The short code may be leased for a specified period of time so that the short code can be reassigned after expiration of the lease.