How to Send SMS from Google Forms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Google Forms is a great tool for collecting data efficiently. But for many organizations, simply collecting responses isn’t enough. Sending SMS messages based on responses can be a game changer, especially if you want to follow up, confirm participation, or further engage with your respondents. Here’s how to integrate SMS sending with Google Forms, plus tips for making the process seamless.

We’ll discuss:

1. Why Integrate SMS with Google Forms?
2. Ways to Send SMS from Google Forms
3. Tips for Using Mass Texting with Google Forms
4. Examples of SMS Use Cases

 

Why Integrate SMS with Google Forms?

Before we dive into the technical steps, let’s discuss why you might want to use SMS with Google Forms:

Instant notifications: Notify respondents or team members immediately.
Automated follow-ups: Send automated reminders or confirmations.
Improved response rate: SMS has a 98% open rate, making it ideal for critical updates.
Personalize communications: Engage respondents directly on their mobile devices for a more personalized experience.

Ways to Send SMS from Google Forms

Google Forms doesn’t natively support SMS functionality, but there are workarounds that allow you to send bulk SMS.

Here are three main methods:

Method 1: Use a Third-Party Integration Tool (Zapier)

Platforms like Zapier allow you to link Google Forms with SMS providers, automating the process without the need for complex coding.

Steps:

1. Create Your Form: Design your Google Form, ensuring it includes a field for collecting phone numbers.
2. Sign up on Zapier: Choose Google Forms as your trigger and set up SMS as the action.
3. Connect to an SMS Service Provider: Common providers include Twilio, ClickSend, or MessageBird.
4. Set Triggers and Actions: Decide when an SMS should be sent (e.g., upon each form submission, on specific criteria).
5. Customize the Message: Personalize the SMS message based on form data, making it relevant to each respondent.

This method is ideal if you’re looking for a simple, code-free solution. Keep in mind, however, that costs can vary depending on the integration tool and SMS provider you choose.

Method 2: Use Google Apps Script with an SMS API (For Advanced Users)

For more control, Google Apps Script can be used to send SMS messages directly from Google Forms. This method requires some coding, but provides a highly customizable solution.

Steps:

1. Create a Form: Start with your Google Form, adding fields for name, phone number, and other necessary details.
2. Write a Google Apps Script:
   • Go to the Google Sheets document linked to your form.
   • Open the script editor (Extensions > Apps Script) and write a script that triggers on form submission.
3. Connect an SMS API: Use an SMS API like Twilio or Nexmo to handle the actual sending of messages.
   • Sign up for an API key from your chosen SMS provider.
   • Use the API documentation to connect your Google Apps Script to the SMS service.
4. Test Your Script: Run a test to ensure your script works and that SMS messages are sent as expected.
5. Set Trigger: Configure your script to trigger upon form submission.

While this method requires technical knowledge, it’s budget-friendly and gives full control over the messaging experience.

Method 3: Use a form builder that fully integrates SMS functionality.

If you find Google Forms limited when it comes to communication, consider switching to a form-building platform with SMS capabilities, like Activity Messenger. It’s a form builder with more options for triggering SMS notifications, automating follow-ups, and sending bulk SMS to lists of specific users.

Benefits of Using a Activity Messenger

• Built-in SMS Functionality: No need for extra integrations or coding.
• Automation Capabilities: Set automated reminders, confirmations, or alerts.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Track response rates and SMS delivery status.

Platforms like Activity Messenger streamline the entire process, making it easy to manage everything in one tool.

Tips for Using Mass Texting with Google Forms

To help maximize the effectiveness of your SMS integration, consider the following best practices:

• Collect Accurate Phone Numbers: Use phone number validation in your Google Form to ensure accurate data collection.
• Keep SMS Messages Concise: Stay within the 160-character limit to avoid splitting messages, which can increase costs.
• Ensure Opt-In Compliance: Get consent before sending SMS notifications, especially if they’re marketing-related.
• Personalize Messages: Use the respondent’s name or other form details to make the message feel personal.

Examples of SMS Use Cases using Google Forms

Here are some practical examples of how SMS integration can add value to your Google Form responses:

• Appointment Reminders: Automatically remind respondents of an upcoming event or meeting.
• Order Confirmations: Confirm receipt of an order or registration, providing additional details if needed.
• Follow-Up Surveys: Send a link to a follow-up survey or additional resources via SMS after form submission.
• Event Updates: Notify participants about schedule changes, venue information, or any last-minute updates.
• Liability Waiver needing to be signed: Request digital signatures via text message for liability waivers or important forms to streamline compliance and documentation.

Start sending bulk SMS today

Adding SMS capabilities to Google Forms can improve engagement and streamline communication. Whether you choose a no-code tool, write a Google Apps script, or switch to a form builder platform with SMS capabilities, each method offers a unique way to effectively integrate SMS with your data collection needs. For those looking for a simple and robust solution, tools like Activity Messenger simplify the process by combining data collection and communication in a single bilingual form building platform. And if you are a Canadian SMB, all your data is stored in Canada.

By combining the convenience of Google Forms with the immediacy of SMS, you can improve your communication strategy and provide a better experience for your respondents.