What improvements could Exotel make to its SMS API to increase delivery rates and reduce latency?

Introduction

To improve Exotel's SMS API delivery rates and reduce latency, we need to analyze the current system, identify bottlenecks, and implement strategic enhancements. I'll outline a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, focusing on technical optimizations, user experience improvements, and strategic partnerships.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (5 mins)

• Looking at the product context, I'm thinking about the scale of Exotel's SMS API operations. Could you provide insight into the current daily SMS volume and peak traffic patterns?

Why it matters: Determines the scale of infrastructure improvements needed Expected answer: Handling millions of SMS daily with significant spikes during business hours Impact on approach: Would focus on scalability and load balancing solutions

• Considering user behavior, I'm curious about the primary use cases for Exotel's SMS API. Are we primarily serving transactional messages, marketing campaigns, or a mix of both?

Why it matters: Influences prioritization of features and optimizations Expected answer: Primarily transactional messages with growing marketing use Impact on approach: Would emphasize reliability for transactional messages while improving deliverability for marketing content

• Regarding product lifecycle and company alignment, where does the SMS API fit within Exotel's broader product suite, and how critical is it to the company's overall strategy?

Why it matters: Helps align improvements with company-wide objectives Expected answer: Core product with significant revenue contribution Impact on approach: Would prioritize high-impact, strategic improvements

• Considering external factors, how does Exotel's SMS API currently compare to competitors in terms of delivery rates and latency?

Why it matters: Identifies key areas for competitive differentiation Expected answer: Slightly behind in delivery rates, comparable latency Impact on approach: Would focus on innovative solutions to surpass competitors