# Setup Lots to Use Text2ParkMe

<p class="callout info">The Text2ParkMe feature allows users to pay for temporary parking, receive expiration reminders, and extend their parking time via SMS text messaging. Its primary purpose is to provide a convenient, mobile-friendly payment option for temporary parkers while increasing overall compliance. This article is intended for OPSCOM administrators responsible for managing parking lots and temporary permit configurations.</p>

## Setup and Configuration

Before you can configure individual lots to use Text2ParkMe, there are two mandatory system prerequisites that must be established with the assistance of the OperationsCommander team.

- **Gateway Provider:** You must have a payment gateway provider set up and configured to accept Text2ParkMe payments. Work with your OPSCOM project manager to ensure this gateway is properly configured and tested within your system.
- **T2P Phone Number:** You require a dedicated Text2ParkMe phone number that your users will text to obtain their temporary parking. The OPSCOM Support team will ensure this number is set up and tested for you.

## Using this Feature

Once the system prerequisites are met, administrators must manually enable and configure the Text2ParkMe settings for each applicable lot.

1. Hover over **Parking Management** and click **Lot Administration** then **Pricing &amp; Lot Admin**.
2. Click the specific **Lot Name** to open its settings.
3. Click the **Temporary Permits** tab.
4. Fill out all required fields located within the red box area.
5. Enter a clear display name in the **Text Code** field. This is the specific code that users will see and use when choosing this lot to park in.
6. Click the **Update Lot** button to save your changes.

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## <span style="color: rgb(22, 145, 121);">Best Practices and Considerations</span>

- <span style="color: rgb(22, 145, 121);">**Text Code Clarity:** Ensure the **Text Code** you assign to a lot is short, intuitive, and easy for users to type on a mobile device to minimize entry errors.</span>
- <span style="color: rgb(22, 145, 121);">**Visibility:** Verify that your lot visibility settings allow temporary parkers to see and interact with the lot once Text2ParkMe is enabled.</span>

<p class="callout info">**Text Messaging Fees:** Be aware that standard text messaging fees do apply to the end user based on their individual cellular phone plans. It is best practice to display a brief disclaimer regarding standard messaging rates on your physical lot signage.</p>