RapidSMS is a free and open-source framework for dynamic data collection, logistics coordination and communication, leveraging basic short message service (SMS) mobile phone technology.

Designed as an enterprise level Web solution, yet capable of running in rugged offline environments, RapidSMS manages data collection, complex workflows, and group coordination using basic mobile phones — and can present information on the internet as soon as it is received.

End users never need a specific device or to install any software on their phone. RapidSMS is focused on commonly available, existing infrastructure to allow for replicability and scalability.

Previous Uses

So far RapidSMS has been customized and deployed with diverse functionality: remote health diagnostics, nutrition surveillance, supply chain tracking, registering children in public health.  It has also been paired with Ushahidi in many instances and can be used to run election monitoring projects.
campaigns, and community discussion.

Useful Links

RapidSMS website
RapidSMS blog
RapidSMS community
RapidSMS on Wikipedia
RapidSMS on Twitter