How to Create your First Ussd Extension With Nalo Solutions

USSD Codes are used by businesses of all sizes. It allows brands to communicate with their customers easily without the use of an active internet connection. 

USSD is an acronym for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, which makes it possible for customers to request a service from their service providers by dialing a code on their handset. 

Ussd can be accessed by dialing * followed by the service code, then #.

Some services that are mostly used on used services in Ghana include mobile banking, crowdfunding, voting systems, airtime purchases, bill payments, and other services that do not require customers to have an active data connection. 

Due to internet connectivity issues in the region, most brands from several industries have capitalized on this ‘low cost’ but effective communication channel.

In this guide, we will be looking at how to set up ussd code extension for your business.

What are the types of USSD codes in Ghana?

There are two (2) types of USSD codes in Ghana. The dedicated USSD code and a shared USSD code.

A dedicated USSD code is a code that is for one client only. For example, Banks, or telco payment services use these codes a lot. For example, *771# for Calbank Mobile Banking.

A Shared USSD code is a code that is shared amongst multiple clients. This service allows companies to save money with their ussd service. An example is *920*4# for Smartcast voting.

How to choose USSD service for your Business

To choose your USSD service, you must first settle on getting a shared code(extension) or a dedicated USSD code. 

Setting up a ussd for your business requires time, effort, and of course budget. While a shared ussd may have budget-friendly advantages, a dedicated ussd code means 24/7 uptime. Hence, downtime in a shared ussd code does not affect you.

Here is how to create and set up your own USSD Code & Extensions from the Nalo SMS Platform.

• Visit the Nalo website @ www.nalosolutions.com and log in to the Nalo SMS Portal.
• On the Dashboard >> Tap on USSD >> Extension Management.

• Tap on Create new, An extension setup form will open for you to create your own USSD code.
• Choose your Business Category, whether individual or company, for Individuals, and submit your Ghana Card for verification. For businesses, you can submit your business certificate. Click Next.

• You can select from the available General USSD codes, choose a premium code, or request a custom code.

• Enter your USSD identifier, This is an 8digit identifier for your USSD code. Click next.

• Enter your endpoint URL, Description, and your Session threshold limit, you will be sent a notification when your current USSD sessions reach the limit. Click Next.

• Review all your information and click submit. Your USSD code request should be processed in a few minutes.

Congratulations, you have now set up your USSD code and extensions by yourself with Nalo solutions Limited.

Kindly note that, with the NALO USSD service, you can create and set up several USSD codes and extensions as you please. Kindly follow the same steps to set up another USSD code of your choice.