FrontlineSMS

Posted by AnneryanHeatwole on Aug 25, 2009
Organization that developed the Tool: 
Main Contact: 
Ken Banks
Problem or Need: 

In developing countries, a lack of communication can be a major barrier to grassroots organizations. FrontlineSMS uses resources that many NGOs already have (phones and computers) to create a means of instantaneous, two-way communication.

Main Contact Email : 
Brief Description: 

FrontlineSMS is a free software that turns a laptop and a mobile phone or GSM modem into a central communications hub. Once installed, the program enables users to send and receive text messages with groups of people through mobile phones.

Tool Category: 
Runs on a computer with tethered modem or mobile phone
Key Features : 
  • Does not require an Internet connection
  • Is laptop-based so it can be used on the road or during power outages.
  • It stores all phone numbers and records all incoming and outgoing messages.
  • Messages can be sent to large groups or individuals.
  • Enables two-way communication.
Main Services: 
Bulk SMS
Tool Maturity: 
Currently deployed
Platforms: 
Linux/UNIX
Mac/Apple
Windows Mobile
Current Version: 
2
Program/Code Language: 
PHP
Other
Number of Current End Users: 
Over 100,000
Number of current beneficiaries: 
10,000-100,000
Languages supported: 
English, French, Spanish, other?
Reviews/Evaluations: 
http://mobileactive.org/howtos/frontline-sms-review
Is the Tool's Code Available?: 
Yes
URL for license: 
not easily available, not listed on FrontlineSMS website
Is an API available to interface with your tool?: 
No
Global Regions: 

FrontlineSMS Locations

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FrontlineSMS data sheet 3425 Views
Organization that developed the Tool: 
Main Contact: 
Ken Banks
Problem or Need: 

In developing countries, a lack of communication can be a major barrier to grassroots organizations. FrontlineSMS uses resources that many NGOs already have (phones and computers) to create a means of instantaneous, two-way communication.

Main Contact Email : 
Brief Description: 

FrontlineSMS is a free software that turns a laptop and a mobile phone or GSM modem into a central communications hub. Once installed, the program enables users to send and receive text messages with groups of people through mobile phones.

Tool Category: 
Runs on a computer with tethered modem or mobile phone
Key Features : 
  • Does not require an Internet connection
  • Is laptop-based so it can be used on the road or during power outages.
  • It stores all phone numbers and records all incoming and outgoing messages.
  • Messages can be sent to large groups or individuals.
  • Enables two-way communication.
Main Services: 
Bulk SMS
Tool Maturity: 
Currently deployed
Platforms: 
Linux/UNIX
Mac/Apple
Windows Mobile
Current Version: 
2
Program/Code Language: 
PHP
Other
Number of Current End Users: 
Over 100,000
Number of current beneficiaries: 
10,000-100,000
Languages supported: 
English, French, Spanish, other?
Reviews/Evaluations: 
http://mobileactive.org/howtos/frontline-sms-review
Is the Tool's Code Available?: 
Yes
URL for license: 
not easily available, not listed on FrontlineSMS website
Is an API available to interface with your tool?: 
No
Global Regions: 

FrontlineSMS Locations

You need to upgrade your Flash Player

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