The OpenMRS Messaging Module: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the messaging module?

The OpenMRS messaging module is the software being developed as a response to the requirements specification found here: [archive:It facilitates the delivery and acceptance of messages in or out of an OpenMRS installation.

What do I need to use the messaging module?

1. An installed copy of OpenMRS.

2. A copy of the messaging module from the module repository. 'Not yet available - check back for more information.'

3. One or more methods you'd like to receive messages from. This can be:

   1. An SMSLib compatible modem with an account from your local telephony provider. For a list of compatible devices, see http://smslib.org/doc/compatibility/.].

   2. A Twitter(r) account.

   3. An email account.

   4. A connection to a Nuntium server (for more details, see [
      You may also need to install a module that takes advantage of the messaging module. The module currently supports transmission and acceptance of simple, one time messages. For more complicated uses you'll need to install a module that leverages the messaging module's API.

What is the messaging module's current functionality?

Currently the messaging module can:

• store user addresses

• send SMS messages

• send Twitter messages

• allow users to manage their addresses and the addresses of patients

• allow users to view sent and received messages

• use nuntium to send and receive all kinds of messages

Currently the messaging module cannot:

• send or receive email messages

• receive SMS messages via SMS modem

• receive twitter messages

• notify listening objects of received messages

• act on received messages (change a patient's record via)

Other things that need work:

• the framework is kind of 'brittle' and needs tweaking

• it has only been tested on Linux

• there are no developer guides for the messaging module on how to implement a new messaging service or how to use the listening/sending APIs

What modules use the messaging module's API?

None currently, but please check back again for more information. If you are a module developer and would like to include messaging functionality, please contact zeshan (at) openmrs (dot) org.

Do I need FrontlineSMS, RapidSMS, or anything else to use the messaging module?

No. Thanks to efforts from InSTEDD we support connection to a Nuntium server but this is not required. At this time, the messaging module does not support direct connection to a FrontlineSMS or RapidSMS installation. The Millennium Villages project has integrated RapidSMS with OpenMRS and may have more information on how to do this. See http://www.childcount.org).].

Are there any alternatives to the messaging module?

Yes. Please see the OpenMRS Mobile page here: [For more information, contact the OpenMRS Mobile Working Group or see http://openmrs.org/wiki/WorkingGroup/Mobile.] for more information.

Where can I get more information about the messaging module?

You can email either the developers' or implementers' mailing lists (see http://openmrs.org/wiki/Community). If you'd prefer a private conversation, feel free to email zeshan (at) openmrs (dot) org.