Unbelievable!! facts about designing business solutions that scales in area with no/low internet coverage using USSD

Introduction

Honorable come closer, it’s important we understand the underlying principles popular technologies obey. When you send a simple text message to check your bank balance or top up your mobile credit without any internet connection, have you ever wondered about the technology behind it? Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) is the mobile communication technology, enabling us to interact with various services in a fast and efficient manner. Today, we’ll dive into the technicalities of USSD, how it works, its use cases, and its potential for the future of mobile interactions.

What are USSD applications ?

USSD, or Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, is a GSM technology that allows users to access information and services through text-based menus. It is typically used to access mobile banking, account information, and other services offered by mobile network operators (MNOs). USSD works by using a special code, known as a USSD code, to dial into a USSD server. The USSD server is a computer that stores the menus and services that are available to USSD users. When a user dials a USSD code, their phone sends a request to the USSD server. The USSD server then sends back the first menu option to the user’s phone. The user can then select an option from the menu by pressing the corresponding number on their phone. This process continues until the user reaches the desired menu option or service. Once the user has reached the desired menu option, they can typically perform an action such as transferring money, checking their account balance, or subscribing to a service. USSD is a popular technology in developing countries because it is relatively inexpensive to implement and use. It is also a good way to reach people who do not have access to the internet.

USSD application used cases:

USSD is a versatile technology that can be used to provide a wide range of services to mobile users. It is a particularly useful tool in developing countries, where access to the internet is often limited — here are some use cases for USSD applications:

• Checking your mobile account balance
• Transferring money between mobile accounts
• Buying airtime or data
• Paying bills
• Subscribing to services such as ringtones, news alerts, or weather updates
• Accessing information such as news headlines, sports scores, or currency exchange rates

Future of USSD applications:

USSD is a versatile technology with the potential to play an increasingly important role in the future of mobile communications. It is particularly well-suited for use in developing countries, Here are some specific ways that USSD could be used in the future:

• Identity management — USSD could be used to provide a secure and convenient way for people to manage their digital identities. This could include things like creating and managing passwords, authenticating themselves to apps and websites, and signing documents electronically.
• Financial services — USSD could be used to provide a wider range of financial services to people who do not have access to traditional banking channels. This could include things like opening and managing bank accounts, transferring money, and paying bills.
• Information services — USSD could be used to provide people with access to information and services that are relevant to their lives. This could include things like news, weather, traffic information, and government services.
• Education and training — USSD could be used to provide people with access to educational and training resources. This could include things like online courses, tutorials, and interactive exercises.
• Entertainment and gaming — USSD could be used to provide people with access to entertainment and gaming content. This could include things like mobile games, music streaming services, and video on demand.

How do I design my USSD Application:

Here’s a brief guide on how to design your USSD application with any programming language (JavaScript, Java, Php, Python, etc) of yours:

1. Choose a USSD development platform. There are a number of different USSD development platforms available, both commercial and open source. Some popular platforms include:

• Africa’s Talking
• mChoice
• Esendex
• CM Telecom
• Infobip

1. Design your USSD application. Once you have chosen a USSD development platform, you will need to design your USSD application. This includes designing the menus, the user interface, and the functionality of your application.
2. Develop your USSD application. Once you have designed your USSD application, you will need to develop it. This involves writing code to implement the menus, the user interface, and the functionality of your application.
3. Test your USSD application. Once you have developed your USSD application, you will need to test it thoroughly. This involves testing all of the menus and functionality of your application to make sure that it works correctly.
4. Deploy your USSD application. Once you have tested your USSD application and are satisfied with it, you can deploy it. This involves contacting your mobile network operator (MNO) and requesting that they deploy your USSD application on their network.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our journey through the technicalities of USSD, it’s clear that this often-overlooked technology is a vital component of mobile communication. USSD offers real-time, interactive services that are particularly important in regions where smartphone penetration is lower. So, the next time you use USSD to access a service, remember the silent technology that makes it all possible — Thank you.