How does 2 way messaging/replies work?

The options for 2 way messaging (sending and receiving messages using fmSMS) will depend on the SMS Gateway that you use and how you host fmSMS:

  1. Polling: some SMS Gateways allow you to “poll” their server for any replies to messages sent from a shared virtual mobile number or a dedicated virtual mobile number. This requires manual intervention – someone needs to click the “Incoming Messages” button in the Account details screen to initiate this process. This method is supported when fmSMS is hosted/opened in FileMaker Pro or hosted by FileMaker Server. You could also setup a schedule using FileMaker Server to periodically check for new incoming messages.
  2. Webhooks: Most SMS Gateways that offer 2 way messaging will have an option to “push” incoming messages to you automatically. This is also our preferred method, but it does require that fmSMS be hosted by FileMaker Server and either the FileMaker Data API or the PHP API be enabled/configured. A static IP address/DNS host name is also recommended as you have to provide the SMS Gateway with a URL to a php file on your server. We provide the necessary PHP files for use with the FileMaker Data API (and the older FileMaker PHP API) that convert the incoming message into a record in the Replies table in fmSMS. Some Gateways charge additional fees to use this feature and you require a dedicated virtual number you will need to rent/purchase one through your SMS Gateway. You will also need to host the PHP files on a web server running PHP.
  3. Claris Connect Webhooks: if you are also a Claris Connect customer you can setup Webhooks in Claris Connect to receive incoming messages from your SMS Gateway. This is usually a much simpler process than using the supplied PHP files for the FileMaker Data API as you don't need to worry about hosting the files and dealing with web servers, PHP configuration changes, port forwarding etc. You can get more information on setting up Claris Connect Webhooks in our Getting Started guide.

You can get more information on 2 Way Messaging in our Getting Started guide.

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