Overview

The SMS Settings section in openSIS allows administrators to configure SMS communication gateways for sending text message notifications directly from the system.

Once configured, SMS services may be used for:

• Attendance notifications
• Alerts and reminders
• Emergency communication
• Administrative announcements
• System-generated notifications

openSIS supports communication providers such as:

• Twilio Gateway

Accessing SMS Settings

To access SMS configuration:

Settings > School Settings > Default Communication Settings

Open the:
SMS tab

The SMS settings screen allows administrators to configure communication provider credentials and sender information.

SMS Configuration Fields

Provider

Defines the SMS communication provider used by the institution.

Example:

• Twilio Gateway

The selected provider determines which credentials are required.

Account SID

The Account SID is the unique account identifier provided by the communication service provider.

This value is required for gateway authentication.

Auth Token

The Auth Token is the secure authentication key associated with the provider account.

This token helps verify and authorize communication requests from openSIS.

Administrators should store this value securely.

SMS From Number

The sender number used for SMS communication.

This number is typically:

• Purchased
• Registered
• Verified

through the communication provider.

Example:
+12134493018

Test Number

The Test Number field is used to verify SMS delivery during setup and testing.

This helps administrators confirm:

• Correct credentials
• Gateway connectivity
• Successful message delivery

before using the configuration in production workflows.

Configuring SMS Settings

To configure SMS communication:

1. Navigate to:
   
   

   Settings > School Settings > Default Communication Settings
2. Open the:
   SMS tab
3. Select the communication provider.
4. Enter:
   • Account SID
   • Auth Token
   • SMS From Number
   • Test Number
5. Click Update

The SMS gateway configuration will now be saved.

Verifying SMS Configuration

After saving the configuration:

• Send a test message if supported
• Verify that the recipient receives the SMS successfully
• Confirm that sender numbers and credentials are correct

If communication fails, review:

• Provider credentials
• Sender number verification
• Account permissions
• Gateway restrictions

Security Recommendations

SMS gateway credentials should only be managed by authorized administrators.

Avoid:

• Sharing Auth Tokens publicly
• Using unverified sender numbers
• Storing credentials insecurely

Common SMS Use Cases in openSIS

Institutions may use SMS communication for:

• Attendance alerts
• Emergency notices
• School announcements
• Parent notifications
• Reminder messages
• Administrative communication

Best Practices

• Use verified sender numbers only.
• Test SMS delivery before production use.
• Keep Auth Tokens secure.
• Configure dedicated test numbers when possible.
• Review provider messaging limits and policies.