alternative texting program?

[marklyn]

OK, let's just say for the sake of an argument I've tried everything I've read and researched in trying to fix a problem I've had with my texting and I want to remove the current texting program and find something else.
How would I remove it and/or what alternative texting programs work in a similar fashion. I don't particularly want AIM or social type networking programs, I just want a plain jane replacement.
Also, would a replacement program have the same 'tie in's' to the operating system or would the program have to be launched form the programs menu?