Templates

Creating Templates

Message Templates in touchSMS allow you to create and save SMS or MMS messages for later use. Templates are ideal for commonly sent messages such as reminders, notifications, confirmations, or internal alerts.

Once saved, templates can be quickly selected when sending a message, saving time and ensuring consistency.

What is a Message Template?

A message template is a predefined message that includes:

• A template name (for easy identification)

• A preset sender ID (where applicable)

• The message content

• Optional merge fields for personalisation

Templates do not send messages on their own — they are used when composing a new SMS or MMS.

Creating an SMS Template

To create a new template:

1. Log in to your touchSMS account and navigate to SMS > Templates

2. Click Create Template

3. Enter a Template Name – (This is internal only and helps you find the template later)

4. Select a Sender ID (if applicable)

5. Compose your message content

6. Click Save

Your template will now be available for use when sending messages.

Using Merge Fields in Templates

Templates support merge fields, which allow you to personalise messages with contact-specific data, such as:

• First name

• Last name

• Company name

• Custom contact fields (if applicable)

Important: Merge Field Requirements

Merge fields will only populate when messages are sent to saved contacts in your address book.

If you:

• Send to unsaved numbers, or

• Upload a raw list of mobile numbers without contact records

…merge fields will not populate and will be sent as plain text.

Example:

• ✔ Works when sending to saved contacts with a First Name field

• ❌ Will not populate when sending to unsaved numbers

When to Use Templates

Templates are best used for:

• Frequently sent messages

• Campaigns that require consistent wording

• Messages that include personalisation via merge fields

• Messages sent by multiple users or teams

Things to Keep in Mind

• Templates do not automatically send messages – they must be selected when composing a message.

• You can edit templates at any time.

• Changing a template does not affect messages that have already been sent.

• Merge fields rely on contact data being present and correctly populated.

Summary

• Templates save time and ensure message consistency

• You can preset the sender ID and message content

• Merge fields are supported but only work with saved contacts

• Templates can be reused across campaigns and one-off sends