To get started with FrontlineSMS you need to download the software, connect a compatible device and then insert a SIM card with credit on it to send and receive messages. To help with this process you can watch this introductory video.

The resources below are for those new to FrontlineSMS and using SMS for social change, and introduce the concept of using SMS for social change as well as providing more information to help you get started with FrontlineSMS.

“SMS Quick Start Guide“ [PDF: 1.5Mb] Ashoka Changemakers and kiwanja.net

This “Quick Start” guide is intended to demystify SMS and help get you set up to using text messaging in your work in the shortest possible time. The guide is not intended to serve as a comprehensive look at the use of SMS, but rather a short overview of SMS considerations and an introduction into how it works.

“Introduction to FrontlineSMS“ [PDF: 600Kb] Jim Witkin and kiwanja.net

This two pager provides a short and concise introduction to FrontlineSMS – useful for printing and sharing at workshops, meetings and conferences, posting online or sharing through email.