December 22, 20254 min read
Push vs SMS: Which Notification for Your Queue?
Push notifications or SMS? Each channel has its advantages. Here's how to choose the best strategy for your business.
Push vs SMS: Key Differences
| Criteria | Push |
|----------|------|-----|
| Cost | Free |
| Open rate | 90% |
| Delay | Instant |
| Requirement | App/browser open |
When to Use Push Notifications
Push is ideal when:
- Customer has a modern smartphone
- They've enabled browser notifications
- You want to save on costs
Advantages
- Completely free
- Unlimited
- Can include images/buttons
Disadvantages
- Require customer permission
- Can be blocked by phone
- Don't work on all devices
When to Use SMS
SMS is preferable when:
- Reliability is critical (medical, important appointments)
- Your clientele is less tech-savvy
- Customer hasn't enabled push
Advantages
- Works on 100% of phones
- Near-perfect read rate
- No client-side configuration
Disadvantages
- Cost per message
- Character limited
- Can be perceived as intrusive
The QueueFast Hybrid Strategy
QueueFast uses a smart approach:
1. Try push first (free)
2. Automatic SMS if failure (reliability)
Result: 99% of customers are notified, with minimal cost.
Conclusion
Don't choose between push and SMS. Use both intelligently. Push for everyday, SMS for guarantee.
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