What is rapidpro?

RapidPro is a free, open-source software that lets anyone create automated messaging conversations (like SMS or WhatsApp chats) without needing to write code. You design simple “flows” that send, receive, and respond to messages based on rules you set.

Let's break it down

  • Free, open-source: The program’s code is publicly available and you don’t have to pay to use it.
  • Software: It’s a computer program you install on a server or use through a hosted service.
  • Create automated messaging conversations: You set up rules so the system can talk back to people automatically.
  • SMS, WhatsApp, etc.: It works with common text-message services, not just one platform.
  • No coding needed: You build the conversation using a visual drag-and-drop builder instead of writing programming language.

Why does it matter?

RapidPro makes it possible for NGOs, governments, and small teams to reach large numbers of people quickly and cheaply, even if they have no technical staff. It helps deliver health alerts, collect survey data, or coordinate emergency response in real time.

Where is it used?

  • Health campaigns: Sending vaccination reminders and collecting symptom reports in rural Africa.
  • Election monitoring: Gathering voter reports of irregularities via SMS during elections.
  • Disaster response: Coordinating relief efforts by sending location-based alerts after floods or earthquakes.
  • Education: Providing school attendance reminders and homework tips to parents via text messages.

Good things about it

  • Completely free and open-source, so you can customize it.
  • Works on low-bandwidth networks and basic phones, not just smartphones.
  • Visual flow builder lets non-technical users design complex conversations.
  • Connects to many messaging channels (SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, voice).
  • Strong global community that shares templates and offers support.

Not-so-good things

  • Requires technical setup or a hosted provider; not a simple “plug-and-play” app.
  • The user interface can feel clunky compared with commercial chatbot platforms.
  • Limited built-in AI or natural-language understanding; advanced features need extra tools.
  • Scaling to millions of messages may need robust server infrastructure and monitoring.