How to Create and Send Surveys via Text Messages

Collecting feedback from a group of people isn’t as easy as it may seem. If you’re struggling with low survey response rates, it’s time to rethink your approach. In a world where inboxes are flooded with unread messages, SMS have the power to easily pave their way to the recipient. Nearly 98% of text messages are read within minutes. 

A text message survey lets you gather feedback instantly, directly through your audience’s favorite device—their phone. It’s quick, personal, and convenient, making it a perfect tool for busy recipients who don’t have time to fill out long surveys.

This guide will show you how to create text message surveys that actually get responses. From tips to tools, you’ll learn everything you need to conduct engaging surveys that bring you valuable feedback. Keep reading!  

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Benefits of Text Message Surveys

Text message surveys are changing the way businesses collect feedback. They’re quick, efficient, and highly effective. Let’s explore how this method stands out and why it works so well for your audience. 

• High Response Rates: Text message surveys achieve much higher response rates (45%), far surpassing email or phone surveys. Why? Text messages are hard to ignore. They pop up instantly and stay visible until read or answered. Unlike emails, which often end up in spam folders, texts go straight to your audience. The simplicity and convenience of replying with a tap make participation almost effortless. 
• Cost-Effectiveness: SMS surveys are one of the most budget-friendly ways to collect data. You don’t need to spend on printing, postage, or call center staff. A single text message survey costs pennies per message, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. This lower cost doesn’t mean lower value—you can reach more people while staying within your budget.  
• Real-Time Data Collection: Text message surveys let you collect feedback almost instantly. Most people read and respond to texts within minutes of receiving them. This speed is invaluable when you need quick insights, such as after a product launch or an event. Unlike email surveys that can sit unanswered for days, SMS surveys keep the momentum going. 
• Improved Data Quality: When recipients answer a text, they tend to respond quickly and honestly. There’s less room for overthinking compared to more formal survey formats like email. Because the process is fast and straightforward, you’re likely to get genuine opinions that better reflect your audience’s immediate thoughts and feelings. 
• Increased Reach: Text message surveys can connect with almost anyone. Around 97% of smartphone users send or receive text messages daily, and you don’t need internet access to participate. This makes SMS surveys perfect for reaching diverse audiences, including those who don’t frequently check emails or use apps.  
• Enhanced Customer Engagement: A well-designed text message survey shows customers you value their opinions. When recipients see that you’re asking for their input in a simple and non-intrusive way, they’re more likely to feel connected. Over time, this strengthens trust and loyalty, ensuring consistent engagement from the recipients. 

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Now, let’s explore how to design text message surveys that are concise, effective, and engaging. 

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How to Create Effective Text Message Surveys

Creating a successful text message survey requires precision and attention to detail. The key is making it easy for your audience to respond while collecting meaningful data. Follow these steps to create surveys that work. 

1. Keep it Concise

Short messages make a text message survey a lot more effective. Long-winded texts can overwhelm recipients or cause them to lose interest. Shorter messages respect your audience’s time and increase the chances of a response. Here’s what you should do: 

• Limit your questions to one or two sentences. For example: "How would you rate your experience with us? Reply with a number from 1-5."
• Avoid jargon or overly technical terms. Keep the language simple and accessible.
• Use clear instructions, so respondents know exactly how to reply. 

2. Focus on Single Questions

A single question per text ensures clarity and simplicity. Sending multiple questions in one message can confuse recipients or discourage them from replying. Each message should ask just one question. For instance: "Would you recommend us to a friend? Reply Yes or No."

Consider breaking longer surveys into separate texts sent at intervals to avoid overwhelming participants. Focusing on one question per message makes your survey easier to understand and answer. 

3. Use Simple Question Formats

Different question formats can make your survey engaging and easy to complete. Each format serves a specific purpose. Choose the right format based on your goals:

• Multiple Choice: Provide clear options like “What’s your favorite feature? Reply 1 for speed, 2 for reliability.”
• Yes/No Questions: Simple and quick, like “Did you enjoy your last purchase? Reply Yes or No.”
• Rating Scales: Use intuitive scales like “On a scale of 1-10, how satisfied are you?”
• Open-Ended Questions: Use sparingly and keep them brief. For example: “What’s one thing we could improve?” 

4. Personalize the Surveys 

Adding a personal touch can significantly improve response rates. Personalization makes your text message survey feel relevant and builds trust with your audience. People are more likely to engage with messages that feel tailored to them. 

• You can use the recipient’s name. For example: “Hi [Name], how would you rate your recent experience with us?”
• Tailor your questions based on past interactions. If someone recently purchased a product, ask about their satisfaction with it.

This way you can create effective surveys and gather data successfully. When conducting surveys for larger groups, various tools make your tasks absolutely easier. In the next section, let’s get to know some of the best platforms for SMS surveys. 

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Top SMS Survey Platforms 

There are many tools and software available in the market that simplify text message survey processes and make it result-oriented for you. To narrow down your choices, here are some top SMS survey platforms to consider: 

1. Udext

Udext offers a robust SMS survey platform designed to facilitate real-time feedback collection from employees without the need for additional apps.  With its seamless survey builder, Udext enables you to create personalized text message surveys that engage respondents in real-time. The platform comes with mobile accessibility and also integrates with 200+ HRIS and payroll systems to support other operations. Additionally, you get ready-to-use message templates for employee communication and survey creation. 

Feature Highlights:

• Real-Time Feedback: Send surveys directly to employees' phones via SMS, enabling immediate responses and insights. 
• Diverse Question Types: Utilize multiple-choice and open-ended questions to capture comprehensive feedback tailored to organizational needs. 
• Set and Forget: Set up scheduled and recurring surveys to maintain consistent feedback collection without manual intervention. 
• Auto Translation: Udext offers automatic translation in over 100 languages, letting you reach multilingual recipients. 
• Two-Way SMS Engagement: Beyond surveys, engage in real-time conversations with employees through SMS, enhancing communication without requiring app downloads. 
• Analytics and Reporting: Monitor survey responses in real time and export results for further analysis or sharing with stakeholders.

2. Delighted

Delighted simplifies customer feedback collection through its easy-to-use SMS survey tool. It lets you send quick text message surveys that capture real-time insights from your audience. With pre-built templates and customizable questions, Delighted streamlines survey creation. The platform integrates with tools like Slack, Zendesk, and HubSpot to centralize feedback and automate workflows. 

Feature Highlights:

• Multi-Channel Surveys: Distribute surveys via SMS, email, web, and more to reach customers on their preferred platform.
• Real-Time Feedback: Receive instant responses to understand customer sentiments promptly.
• Customizable Templates: Design surveys that reflect your brand identity.
• Analytics Dashboard: Access comprehensive reports to analyze trends and make informed decisions.

3. piHappiness

piHappiness is a customer feedback platform that excels in real-time text message surveys. Designed to gauge customer satisfaction, it captures instant feedback through SMS, helping businesses improve service quality. The tool focuses on gathering Net Promoter Score (NPS), Customer Satisfaction (CSAT), and Employee Satisfaction (ESAT) data via short, personalized messages. 

Feature Highlights:

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• Emotion Mapping: Tracks customer emotions through feedback responses for deeper insights.
• Real-Time Alerts: Get instant alerts for negative feedback to take immediate action.
• Multi-Language Support: Send text message surveys in various languages to reach diverse audiences.
• Data Visualization: Offers dynamic dashboards to monitor trends and performance. 

4. SurveySparrow  

SurveySparrow stands out with its conversational text message surveys that drive better engagement. Its unique approach turns traditional surveys into chat-like interactions, improving completion rates. The platform allows you to create engaging SMS surveys that feel personal and human, making respondents more likely to share honest feedback.  

Feature Highlights:

• Recurring Surveys: Automate survey scheduling to gather continuous feedback without manual intervention.
• Conversational Interface: Surveys mimic real conversations to reduce drop-off rates.
• Custom Workflows: Trigger follow-ups or actions based on survey responses.
• White-Labeling Options: Personalize your surveys to match your brand’s identity seamlessly. 

5. SurveyMonkey

SurveyMonkey is a well-known platform for creating text message surveys that gather actionable feedback. It offers a range of templates and customization options to fit different industries and needs. With robust analytics, SurveyMonkey helps you track trends and make data-driven decisions quickly.  

Feature Highlights:

• Pre-Built Templates: Access industry-specific survey templates to save time and maintain quality.
• Survey Logic: Use skip logic and question branching to keep surveys relevant and concise.
• Detailed Reporting: Gain insights through visual dashboards and exportable reports.
• Integrations: Connect with tools like Salesforce and Mailchimp for seamless data flow. 

Selecting the right SMS survey platform is crucial for effective customer engagement. Consider your specific needs and the features each platform offers to make an informed decision.

Next, we'll explore tips to help you choose the right text message survey tools for your business.

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Tips to Choose the Right Text Message Survey Tools

Choosing the right text message survey tool is critical for gathering actionable feedback. With so many platforms available, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here’s how to make the right choice. 

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Assess Your Needs 

Start by identifying your goals. What do you want to achieve with your text message surveys?

• Define your survey objectives, such as improving customer service or understanding product satisfaction.
• Consider the size of your audience and how often you plan to send surveys.
• Determine if you need advanced analytics, automation, or integration with other tools.

If you’re a small business, focus on tools that are easy to use with essential features. 

Check User-Friendliness

Look for platforms that offer an intuitive interface.

• Ensure the tool doesn’t require technical expertise to create and send surveys.
• Choose a platform with a clean dashboard and clear navigation for efficient use.
• Prioritize tools that allow quick edits to survey templates and distribution lists.

Pro Tip: Request a demo or trial to see if the tool feels comfortable for your workflow. 

Review Integration Capabilities

Select a tool that works seamlessly with your existing software.

• Look for integrations with CRM systems, email marketing tools, or analytics platforms.
• Ensure the platform can import and export contact lists easily.
• Verify if it supports third-party services for added flexibility.

A platform that integrates with other systems allows you to send personalized surveys efficiently.

Evaluate Pricing Plans

Ensure the tool fits within your budget without compromising features.

• Compare pricing tiers and what each plan offers, from basic to premium.
• Check for hidden fees, such as charges for additional messages or storage.
• Look for platforms offering pay-as-you-go options if you don’t need regular surveys.

Udext provides demos and flexible price plans so you can choose solutions that really fit your needs. 

Examine Reporting and Analytics

Effective surveys rely on actionable insights.

• Your tool should provide real-time analytics and customizable reports.
• Ensure it tracks essential metrics, like response rates and completion times.
• Look for visual reports, like charts and graphs, to simplify data interpretation. 

Confirm Customer Support

Responsive support can save you time and frustration.

• Check if the platform offers live chat, email, or phone support.
• Look for a detailed help center with guides and FAQs.
• Ensure their support team operates during your business hours.

Tip: Read user reviews to gauge the quality of the platform’s customer service. 

Test SMS Delivery Rates

Your surveys are only effective if they reach your audience.

• Look for platforms that promise high delivery rates and minimal delays.
• Ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR or TCPA to avoid delivery issues.
• Test the platform’s performance by sending trial messages to various devices.

In the next section, let’s take a look at some tips and best practices to ensure success for your text message surveys.  

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Sending Text Message Surveys: Best Practices for Better Results 

Creating an effective text message survey takes more than just asking the right questions. It requires thoughtful planning, regular testing, and a commitment to quality. Here’s how you can elevate your surveys with proven best practices and expert tips. 

A/B Testing

One of the easiest ways to improve your text message survey is through A/B testing. This involves sending different versions of your survey to separate groups and analyzing which performs better. 

You can test various elements, such as message length, question formats, or even the timing of your messages. For example, try sending a short yes/no question to one group and a detailed multiple-choice question to another. Similarly, experiment with sending surveys in the morning versus the afternoon to see when people are more likely to respond. 

By tracking these differences, you’ll discover what resonates best with your audience and can adjust your approach accordingly. Regular testing leads to higher engagement and more reliable feedback. 

Accessibility

An accessible text message survey ensures that everyone, including people with disabilities, can participate with ease. Accessibility isn’t not only about complying with regulations but also ensuring your survey is simple, clear, and usable for all recipients. 

Start by ensuring that your surveys work across various devices and screen sizes. If you include images or links, provide alternative text so users understand the content even if they can’t view the media. 

Additionally, use simple language and avoid jargon to ensure that your questions are easy to understand for a broad audience. This broadens your reach and ensures you’re collecting data from a diverse range of respondents, leading to more inclusive results. 

Data Privacy and Security

People are more likely to engage when they know their information is protected. To build trust, ensure your survey platform follows data protection regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) or CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act). 

Always communicate clearly how the collected data will be used and stored. For example, you can include a message at the start of the survey, such as, “Your responses will remain confidential.” 

Using secure platforms with encryption ensures that sensitive data is not exposed to unauthorized access. Taking these steps shows respondents that you value their privacy, which ultimately improves engagement. 

Continuous Improvement

Your survey strategy shouldn’t be static. Continuous improvement is essential to keeping your text message surveys relevant and effective. After sending a survey, review the response rates and feedback to see what worked and what didn’t. Did one question get more responses than another? Were people more engaged during a certain time of day? Use this data to fine-tune future surveys. 

Keep an eye on industry trends and evolving customer preferences. Updating your questions and formats based on new insights keeps your surveys fresh and increases the chances of getting quality feedback. Improving your strategies from time to time helps you stay connected to your audience’s changing needs.

By applying these best practices, you can create text message surveys that are both engaging and effective.  

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Turn SMS Surveys Into Valuable Insights With Udext 

At Udext, we understand that meaningful employee feedback is essential for a thriving organization. That’s why we’ve created a platform that simplifies feedback collection while delivering unmatched response rates. With Udext, you can engage your employees through a channel they use daily—SMS. 

No apps, no logins—just real, actionable insights delivered directly to your dashboard.  

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What Can You Achieve with Udext?

Udext supports a wide range of surveys tailored to meet your specific needs:

• Employee Satisfaction Surveys: Understand how your team feels about their roles and work environment.
• Engagement Surveys: Assess commitment levels and identify opportunities to boost morale and productivity.
• Pulse Surveys: Get quick snapshots of employee sentiment to address issues before they escalate.
• Exit Surveys: Learn from departing employees to refine retention strategies and improve workplace culture.
• 360-Degree Feedback: Collect comprehensive performance reviews for well-rounded employee evaluations.
• Onboarding Surveys: Ensure new hires have a seamless start by refining your onboarding process with their feedback. 

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Know More About Udext’s SMS Surveys and Polls 

Conclusion 

Text message surveys cut through the clutter, engage your audience directly, and deliver real-time responses, helping you make informed decisions faster.

Whether you're a small business looking to understand your customers better or a large organization striving to enhance employee satisfaction, SMS surveys provide a powerful tool for collecting meaningful feedback.

With platforms like Udext, you can effortlessly design, deploy, and analyze surveys that drive engagement and actionable results. By leveraging the convenience of SMS, you not only reach a wider audience but also create a seamless feedback experience that builds trust and loyalty.

Beyond a text message survey tool, Udext becomes your strategic partner in building a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce. It lets you turn employee feedback into your company’s competitive strength. Get started with Udext today!