Push Message Notification with Deep Linking

Push notifications, also known as push messages and push alerts, enable administrators to send messages directly to all of the subscribed users of their mobile app. In addition to supporting push messages, the AppBurst platform also supports including a "deep link" within the message, meaning users of the app are brought to a specific section or page when they tap on the notification.

How Push Messages Work

AppBurst clients are given access to an administration interface called the AppBurst Dashboard, which contains a section used by administrators to send push notifications to users via a simple form. Below is a screen shot of the push section of the dashboard:

Administrators enter the text message -- up to 120 characters in length -- and can enter the unique URL for a piece of content in the app, known as "deep linking". If no link is specified, the app will launch when the user acknowledges the push notification and the user will be brought to the home screen.

Scheduled Push Messages

The introduction of scheduled push messaging adds another extremely useful element to the feature and serves to make up for time zone differences or in cases where event planners simply can’t be in front of a computer when an important message needs to be sent before, during, or after an event. Scheduling multiple messages at once--often times weeks or months in advance--also serves to ensure notifications aren’t forgotten and enables staff to focus on other event-related priorities during the conference or meeting.

Whether sending a push message right away or scheduling one for later, the process only entails a few simple steps. Scheduling a push message involves typing the message and choosing applicable options much like a standard message, while admin users then select a date and time for the push to be published. Once saved, queued messages are displayed in a list with the ability to delete or edit those messages awaiting publication.

Push Notification Subscriber Stats

The AppBurst dashboard displays statistics about the number of push subscribers that exist for each app. Administrators quickly get an overview of how many devices will receive their push message. The numbers are further broken down by device type.

Below is what the push notification looks like on an iPhone when the device is locked. If the user unlocks the device while the message is displayed, their iPhone will automatically open the app and bring them to the section specified by the administrator. App users may also navigate to the message center of their mobile device and tap on the message for the same result. The user experience of receiving a message is the same on iPhone, iPad, and Android mobile devices.

Event Apps & Push Messaging Benefits

From generating additional revenue to alerting attendees of room changes and other scheduling updates, push messaging represents an invaluable tool for meeting organizers. With the addition of "deep linking", users may now be directed to specific sponsor pages, exhibitor listings, or sessions to promote specific areas of the app at an event. Other content -- such as marketing materials, PDF presentations, and social media -- can also be promoted more directly throughout the year.