Overview

 

**Make sure to check out "Best Practices" at the bottom of this article.**

This article will cover how to create and send push notifications. Navigate to the Push Notification module in main menu and select the Notification tab.

Notifications can be sent to specific target groups or narrowed down further using advanced filters such as Base, Equipment, or Position/Rank.
Notifications may also be sent when creating and submitting content, such as news, report status udpates and surveys, where the “Send Notification” action is configured.

 

Sections in this Article

  1. Creating a Notification
  2. Targeting Options
  3. Scheduling Notifications
  4. Notifications Sent via Content Actions
  5. Best Practices for Using Push Notifications

 

1.  Creating a Notification

  1. Go to Push Notifications > Notification.
  2. In the Notification Information form, fill out the following fields:
    • Notification Type:
      • Normal with sound: Includes a soft sound alert.
      • Normal no sound: Silent notification.
      • Badge count only: Updates the app badge count without an alert.
    • Select Target Groups:
      • Choose Member Groups or Internal Groups that should receive the notification. See targeting options below (2)
    • Message:
      • Enter the notification text (required).
  3. (Optional) Check Send Later to schedule the notification for a future time. See further below (3)
  4. Click Send Now or confirm the schedule.

 

2.  Targeting Options

Push notifications can be tailored to specific audiences using:

  • Groups:
    • Member Groups: Notifications sent to specific member audiences.
    • Internal Groups: Notifications sent to internal users, such as staff, board or moderators.
  • Narrow Targeting:
    • Refine your audience further with options like Base, Equipment, and Position/Rank.
    • Example: Target pilots in a specific base using specific equipment.

 

3.  Scheduling Notifications

To send a notification at a later date or time:

  1. Compose your notification as described above.
  2. Check the Send Later option.
  3. Set the desired date and time.
  4. Confirm by clicking Schedule Notification.

The notification will appear in the Scheduled tab, where you can view, edit, or delete it before it’s sent.

4.  Notifications Sent via Content Actions

Notifications can be generated when creating content or providing a report status update, and are submitted when content is pushed live. This functionality is available within most modules, ensuring timely notification is deliver to members. To learn more, see the articles for each respective module.

Modules where notificaitons can be sent with content.

  • Reports - automatically sent for status udpate and submitted comment
  • Surveys
  • Journals
  • News
  • Events
  • Documents

 

4.  Best Practices for Using Push Notifications

 

***Push notifications are a direct way to communicate with members and internal groups. These notifications are received on users’ devices to provide important updates, reminders, or alerts. It’s important to note that while notifications are enabled by default, users have full control over enabling or disabling them through their device settings.***

Encouraging users to adjust their notification preferences helps ensure they receive only the most relevant messages, reducing potential frustration while improving engagement.

 

Push notifications are a powerful communication tool. To maximize their effectiveness and avoid overwhelming recipients, consider the following best practices:

  1. Be concise and clear: Keep messages short and direct.
  2. Use targeting wisely: Only notify relevant groups to avoid spamming.
  3. Limit frequency: Avoid sending too many notifications in a short time.
  4. Choose the right timing: Send notifications at times when users are most likely to engage.
  5. Provide value: Ensure every notification delivers useful or important information.