Key research themes
1. How can SMS be leveraged as a cost-efficient and accessible marketing tool for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies?
This research theme investigates the adoption, effectiveness, and consumer perceptions of SMS marketing among SMEs, particularly in emerging economies. Given the widespread ownership of mobile phones and the low cost of SMS, this theme is vital for understanding how SMEs can harness SMS to gain competitive advantage within resource-constrained and rapidly evolving markets.
2. What are the security vulnerabilities and enhancements applicable to SMS communication in mobile networks, particularly for sensitive applications like banking and personal communication?
This theme centers on the security challenges inherent to SMS technology, including encryption weaknesses and protocol vulnerabilities, as well as methods to enforce end-to-end security and authentication. The significance of this theme is underscored by SMS’s pervasive use for sensitive functions such as banking authentication and emergency communication, where breaches can have serious consequences.
3. How can SMS technology facilitate critical real-time alerting and monitoring systems in healthcare and disaster management contexts?
This theme explores SMS as a reliable, low-bandwidth communication channel for timely warnings and health monitoring in resource-limited or emergency settings. By enabling immediate alerts and user interaction, SMS-based systems can augment safety in maternal health emergencies, infant monitoring, disaster flood warnings, and patient supervision, especially in low- and middle-income countries where infrastructure constraints limit alternatives.