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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]] > [[2024 Release Notes]] > Action Updates
'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]] > [[2024 Release Notes]] > Action Updates


= Action Updates: Update Deal Title, Stage, and More =
= Action Updates: Split, Start/End, Add Note, and More =


== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==


The '''September 2024 Action Updates''' in ActiveCampaign bring significant enhancements to deal-related automation actions. These updates aim to improve ease of use, personalization, and workflow clarity across marketing and sales automations.
As part of ActiveCampaign's continued improvements to the automation experience, the September 2024 release introduces significant **Action Updates** to several widely used automation actions. These enhancements bring visual and functional refinements to the **Split**, **Start/End Other Automation**, **Add Contact and Deal Note**, and **Site Message** actions.  


With the newly enhanced automation actions like '''Update deal title''', '''Update deal stage''', '''Update deal value''', and others, users can automate their customer relationship management processes more efficiently.
By focusing on UI clarity, personalization accessibility, and advanced segmentation, these updates streamline how users create and manage dynamic, targeted automations. With these changes, marketers and businesses can build automations faster, test variations with greater control, and deliver personalized communication more reliably.


This article walks through how to access and implement these updates, outlines the configuration settings, shares best practices, and answers common questions.
This article provides a detailed overview of the updated actions, explains how to access them, and offers best practices for using each within your automation workflows.


== How to Access This Feature ==
== How to Access Updated Actions ==


Action updates, including the enhanced deal automation options, are available within the Automation Builder under the deal-specific actions. To access the improved automation actions for deals, follow these steps:
The enhanced automation actions are available across all ActiveCampaign plan types, including **Starter**, **Plus**, **Professional**, and **Enterprise**. These updates are integrated into the **Automations** workspace and affect how you configure certain actions when building or editing an automation.


1. Navigate to your ActiveCampaign dashboard.
To access the updated action interfaces:
2. Select the '''Automations''' tab from the left sidebar.
3. Open an existing automation or click '''Create an Automation'''.
4. In the automation workflow interface, click '''+''' to add a new action.
5. Locate the updated deal actions under the '''CRM''' section.


You will now see the redesigned and enhanced options such as:
# Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
# Go to the top navigation panel and click on **Automations**.
# Create a new automation or open an existing one.
# Within the workflow builder, click the **+** icon to add a new action.
# Select one of the updated actions: **Split**, **Start Other Automation**, **End Other Automation**, **Add Contact Note**, **Add Deal Note**, or **Site Message**.


* '''Update deal title'''
== Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Updated Action ==
* '''Update deal stage'''
* '''Update deal value'''
* '''Update deal status'''
* '''Update deal owner'''
* '''Add deal'''
* '''Convert deal'''


== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
=== Split Action ===


Each updated action includes an improved layout, streamlined configuration, and added flexibility for better control and faster automation setup.
The **Split** action now has a dedicated section in the automation builder, distinct from **Even Split**, allowing enhanced targeting through segmentation criteria.


Below are steps for using several updated actions:
To configure the new **Split** action:


=== Update Deal Title ===
# In the automation builder, click on the **+** icon.
# Choose **Conditions and Workflow** > **Split**.
# Select either **Even Split** or **Conditional Split**.
# For **Conditional Split**, set criteria using the new **Segmentation Builder**, which now supports:
  - **Campaign Event Time Windows**
  - **Custom Objects**
  - **1:1 Emails**


1. In your automation, click '''+''' to add a new action.
This enhanced segmentation provides greater flexibility for targeting specific audiences within an automation path.
2. From the action menu, choose '''CRM > Update deal title'''.
3. Select the deal you want to update (you can use personalization fields).
4. Enter a new deal title or use variables such as contact name for dynamic updates.
5. Click '''Save'''.


This allows you to keep deal names consistent, personalized, and reflective of the contact's journey.
=== Start/End Other Automation Actions ===


=== Update Deal Stage ===
Previously, selecting automations involved scrolling through long dropdown menus. The updated interface presents a clean, visual list including previews, names, and labels for both **active** and **inactive** automations.


1. Click the '''+''' icon within your automation.
To configure:
2. Select '''CRM > Update deal stage'''.
3. Choose the pipeline and specific stage to move the deal to.
4. Click '''Save'''.


Perfect for progressing deals forward as triggers are met (e.g., email opened, form submitted).
# In the automation builder, click the **+** icon.
# Choose **Conditions and Workflow** > **Start Another Automation** or **End Another Automation**.
# Use the streamlined interface to select from a list of automations.
# Click to preview or confirm by selecting the automation.


=== Update Deal Value ===
This new visual selection improves navigation and ensures production automations can be triggered or exited with fewer errors and greater intent.


1. Add a new automation action and choose '''Update deal value''' under the CRM section.
=== Add Contact and Deal Note Actions ===
2. Enter a new monetary value or use custom fields for dynamic assignment.
3. Optionally, use conditions or tags to determine when this change should apply.
4. Click '''Save'''.


This is especially useful when users want to auto-categorize high-value leads.
The **Add Note** actions now support easier access to personalization. You can include dynamic content using a wide variety of tags.


=== Update Deal Status ===
To configure a note action:


1. Add a new action block and choose '''Update deal status'''.
# Click on the **+** icon in the automation workflow.
2. Choose the status: Open, Won, or Lost.
# Go to **CRM** > **Add Contact Note** or **Add Deal Note**.
3. Use this to automatically mark deals as won/lost as workflows reach their completion.
# In the note editor, use the **Personalization Tag** selector to insert customized values.
4. Click '''Save'''.
# Available tags now include:
  - **Contact Fields**
  - **Deal Fields**
  - **Account Fields**
  - **Custom Object Fields**


Automating status transitions ensures data accuracy and sales transparency.
This update lets your internal notes be more descriptive and actionable, adapting based on the contact’s individual details.


=== Update Deal Owner ===
=== Site Message Action ===


1. In your automation, insert the '''Update deal owner''' block.
The **Site Message** action has undergone a complete layout redesign for better usability and customization.
2. Select a team member or owner to assign newly updated deals to.
3. This keeps deals properly distributed across your sales team based on rules or source.
4. Click '''Save'''.


=== Add Deal ===
Steps to configure:


1. Choose '''Add deal''' from the CRM actions.
# Add the **Site Message** action within your automation.
2. Enter a title, assign pipeline, stage, and value.
# Choose whether to create a new message or select an existing one.
3. Optionally, assign an owner.
# Specify message placement using the updated interface:
4. Click '''Save'''.
  - Determine where on the webpage it will appear (e.g., top, bottom, overlay)
  - Select visual effects (slide in, fade, etc.)
# Customize targeting criteria as needed (e.g., returning visitors or subscribers).


This action helps create deals automatically when specific triggers such as new signup, demo request, or lead source appear.
This improvement makes it easier to deliver contextually relevant site experiences without needing technical workarounds.
 
=== Convert Deal ===
 
1. Select '''Convert deal''' from the action menu.
2. This step helps in transitioning a contact from one status to another during the deal lifecycle.
3. Configure specifics based on your pipeline logic.
4. Save your action to finalize setup.


== Configuration Options and Settings ==
== Configuration Options and Settings ==


Each action above provides a simplified layout with fields pre-validated to reduce errors. Below are key configuration elements provided in each action type:
Each updated action includes unique configuration enhancements:


* '''Title Field''': Enter static text or use personalization for dynamic deal titles.
* '''Split Action''':
* '''Deal Pipeline Selector''': Assign deals to specific pipelines based on automation logic.
  - '''Even Split''' or '''Conditional Split'''
* '''Stage Dropdown''': Allows placement of the deal in the correct chronological phase.
  - '''Segmentation Builder''' (with new segment types)
* '''Monetary Value Input''': Set explicit values or calculate based on custom fields.
* '''Start/End Automation''':
* '''Owner Assignment Field''': Auto-assign deals to appropriate team users.
  - Visual selection interface with **automation previews**, organized by status
* '''Status Option''': Mark deals as Open, Won, or Lost as per workflow logic.
* '''Add Contact/Deal Note''':
  - Insert dynamic values using the expanded '''Personalization Tag Selector'''
  - Tags available for **Contacts**, **Deals**, **Accounts**, and **Custom Objects**
* '''Site Message''':
  - Select placement and visual effects
  - Choose from saved messages or create a new one
  - Define advanced display settings, such as timing or frequency


All fields offer support for personalization tokens to allow greater customization.
== Best Practices and Tips ==


== Best Practices and Tips ==
To maximize the value of these updates:


* Use **personalization fields** generously to name deals and assign values dynamically based on contact data.
* Use the '''Conditional Split''' with new segment types like **Campaign Event Time Window** to customize experiences based on campaign interactions.
* Automate **deal stage transitions** to align closely with contact behavior (e.g., purchases, email clicks).
* Label your automations clearly—this helps when browsing the new visual list under **Start/End Other Automation**.
* Leverage **conditional logic** or **Split actions** along with these updates to tailor when a deal should move forward or change value.
* Take advantage of the expanded **personalization tags** to create detailed internal context for your contacts and deals.
* Consistently **update deal owners** based on source to streamline sales assignment.
* Keep message design concise in **Site Messages**, and utilize newly added placement options to minimize user disruption.
* Combine updated actions with other CRM triggers such as **Add note**, **Tag contact**, or **Split testing** for a holistic automation experience.
* Test automation branches regularly using the **Split Action** to optimize outcomes with data-backed decisions.


== Common Use Cases with Examples ==
== Common Use Cases with Examples ==


=== 1. Automatically Advance Deals Post Engagement ===
* **A/B Testing Welcome Sequences**: Use the enhanced **Split Action** to test different email sequences depending on engagement behavior.
If a contact clicks on a CTA in your email campaign, use '''Update deal stage''' to automatically move them to the "Qualified" stage.
* **Re-Engagement Based on Campaign Activity**: Use **Conditional Split** to create re-engagement flows for contacts active within specific **Campaign Event Time Windows**.
 
* **Triggering Coordinated Campaigns**: Leverage **Start Other Automation** to initiate a follow-up series from a product availability trigger.
=== 2. Dynamically Set Deal Titles ===
* **Internal CRM Coordination**: Use **Add Deal Note** to notify sales of contact activity with personalization like "Viewed Site Message on Product Page".
Use contact personalization tags in '''Update deal title''' like "Consultation for %CONTACT_NAME%" to track individual opportunities.
* **On-Site Promotions**: Deploy **Site Messages** that show discount codes only to returning visitors based on their automation path.
 
=== 3. Increase Deal Value Based on Product Interest ===
When a contact views a high-value product, use '''Update deal value''' to elevate the deal’s potential worth via field mapping.
 
=== 4. Assign Owners by Deal Source ===
Apply the '''Update deal owner''' action based on which signup form they've submitted to personalize outreach.
 
=== 5. Create and Advance Deal Seamlessly ===
Trigger an '''Add deal''' action followed by '''Update deal stage''' to move deals through your pipeline as behavior changes.


== Troubleshooting ==
== Troubleshooting ==


If you experience issues while using these updated actions:
If you experience issues using the updated automation actions:
 
* **Missing Fields or Errors**: Ensure fields like '''Stage''' or '''Owner''' have correct selections and that the contact has a deal record.
* **Action Not Triggering**: Confirm that the trigger leading to the update is valid and that the automation is active.
* **Personalization Tokens Not Resolving**: Validate that the chosen personalization field exists and is correctly formatted.
* **Incorrect Deal Assignment**: Verify that '''Owner''' or pipeline selections are set correctly within the action.


Restart your automation or reconfigure the desired action with updated inputs if issues persist.
* Make sure your automation is **active** or in **editing mode** to apply and test changes.
* If an automation option doesn’t appear under **Start/End Automation**, verify that it exists in your account and hasn’t been deleted.
* Site Messages may not appear on your site if the placement settings are not compatible with your site layout—check message type and visibility rules.
* If personalization tags don’t populate, confirm that the appropriate field values exist for the contact or deal at runtime.


== Related Features ==
== Related Features ==


The following articles may be helpful when working with these updated actions:
For additional depth on related functionality, see:


* [[Automation]]
* [[Automation]]
* [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]]
* [[2024 Release Notes]]
* [[2024 Release Notes]]
* [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]]
* [[September 2024]]
 
Also see:


* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/218251828-Automation-actions-explained Automation actions explained]
Also see these dedicated guides:
* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/15759175768732-Action-Updates-Split-Start-End-Add-Note-and-more Action Updates: Split, Start/End, Add Note, and more]


== FAQ ==
* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/115001957624-How-to-use-the-split-action-in-an-automation How to use Split Action]
* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/218251828-Automation-actions-explained#h_01J4WED1YDFG2VQ4DZYPS4RVJJ Start/End Automation Explanation]
* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000062250-Getting-started-with-Site-Messages Getting Started with Site Messages]


=== What are action updates in ActiveCampaign automations? ===
== Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ==
Action updates refer to enhancements released in September 2024 that improve deal-based automation actions like updating title, stage, value, and owner. These changes enhance usability and efficiency.


=== Can I personalize the deal title in automations? ===
=== Are these action updates available to all users? ===
Yes, using personalization fields (e.g., contact name), you can dynamically generate deal titles in the '''Update deal title''' action.
Yes. These enhancements are available to users on all plan types, including Starter, Plus, Pro, and Enterprise.


=== Are these actions part of existing automations or do I need to rebuild them? ===
=== What’s the difference between the new Split options and the older version? ===
You can update existing automations. The new features are integrated into the existing action panel, so they can be added or modified without rebuilding workflows.
The new **Split Action** includes a dedicated area for **Even Split** and **Conditional Split**, with a more robust segmentation builder and access to new data dimensions like **Custom Objects** and **1:1 Emails**.


=== How do I choose the correct deal stage or owner? ===
=== Can I preview automations when selecting them using the Start/End Other Automation action? ===
Each action includes selectors for available pipelines, stages, and owners. Choose the most appropriate option based on your CRM setup and logic.
Yes. The updated interface includes previews, showing names and labels to help you select the correct automation without scrolling blind through dropdowns.


=== Will these updates impact contacts already in the automation? ===
=== What types of personalization tags are supported in note actions? ===
If the updated actions are added to an active automation, only contacts who reach that step afterward will experience the new logic.
Tags from **Contacts**, **Deals**, **Accounts**, and **Custom Objects** can now be added directly via the **Note Editor**, making note content adaptable to each recipient’s data.


=== Can I still use the old deal actions? ===
=== Will existing notes or automations break due to these updates? ===
No. The old versions have been replaced by the updated actions with an improved user interface and enhanced functionality.
No. These are enhancements to the interface and flexibility of actions. Your existing automations will continue functioning as configured. You may, however, benefit from revisiting them to take advantage of the new features.


=== Are these features available on all plan tiers? ===
=== Are Site Message fields different now? ===
While not explicitly stated in the documentation, most deal-related automation actions require access to CRM functionality, which may be plan-dependent.
Yes. The new layout allows for visual customization of **location**, **display effects**, and better message management, all within a simplified setup flow.


== Conclusion ==
=== Where can I learn more about these features? ===
Refer to the [[Automation]] guide, or visit the individual action documentation provided in the Resources section above. You can also explore platform updates on the [https://www.activecampaign.com/release-updates ActiveCampaign Release Updates] page.


The September 2024 updates to deal automation actions mark a significant improvement in how ActiveCampaign users can manage and automate their deal workflows. By streamlining and personalizing steps like updating deal titles, advancing stages, modifying values, and assigning owners, users are empowered to save time and drive better CRM results. Take advantage of these enhancements to keep your sales funnels running efficiently and intelligently.
----


For more information, visit the [[2024 Release Notes]] or explore related resources through the Automation Builder.
These Action Updates are part of ActiveCampaign’s mission to streamline intelligent marketing automation. By using these redesigned tools, you can implement faster, more effective campaigns with fewer missteps, personalized outcomes, and higher engagement.

Revision as of 06:01, 2 November 2025

Navigation: Main_Page > ActiveCampaign Release Notes > 2024 Release Notes > Action Updates

Action Updates: Split, Start/End, Add Note, and More

Introduction

As part of ActiveCampaign's continued improvements to the automation experience, the September 2024 release introduces significant **Action Updates** to several widely used automation actions. These enhancements bring visual and functional refinements to the **Split**, **Start/End Other Automation**, **Add Contact and Deal Note**, and **Site Message** actions.

By focusing on UI clarity, personalization accessibility, and advanced segmentation, these updates streamline how users create and manage dynamic, targeted automations. With these changes, marketers and businesses can build automations faster, test variations with greater control, and deliver personalized communication more reliably.

This article provides a detailed overview of the updated actions, explains how to access them, and offers best practices for using each within your automation workflows.

How to Access Updated Actions

The enhanced automation actions are available across all ActiveCampaign plan types, including **Starter**, **Plus**, **Professional**, and **Enterprise**. These updates are integrated into the **Automations** workspace and affect how you configure certain actions when building or editing an automation.

To access the updated action interfaces:

  1. Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
  2. Go to the top navigation panel and click on **Automations**.
  3. Create a new automation or open an existing one.
  4. Within the workflow builder, click the **+** icon to add a new action.
  5. Select one of the updated actions: **Split**, **Start Other Automation**, **End Other Automation**, **Add Contact Note**, **Add Deal Note**, or **Site Message**.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Updated Action

Split Action

The **Split** action now has a dedicated section in the automation builder, distinct from **Even Split**, allowing enhanced targeting through segmentation criteria.

To configure the new **Split** action:

  1. In the automation builder, click on the **+** icon.
  2. Choose **Conditions and Workflow** > **Split**.
  3. Select either **Even Split** or **Conditional Split**.
  4. For **Conditional Split**, set criteria using the new **Segmentation Builder**, which now supports:
  - **Campaign Event Time Windows**
  - **Custom Objects**
  - **1:1 Emails**

This enhanced segmentation provides greater flexibility for targeting specific audiences within an automation path.

Start/End Other Automation Actions

Previously, selecting automations involved scrolling through long dropdown menus. The updated interface presents a clean, visual list including previews, names, and labels for both **active** and **inactive** automations.

To configure:

  1. In the automation builder, click the **+** icon.
  2. Choose **Conditions and Workflow** > **Start Another Automation** or **End Another Automation**.
  3. Use the streamlined interface to select from a list of automations.
  4. Click to preview or confirm by selecting the automation.

This new visual selection improves navigation and ensures production automations can be triggered or exited with fewer errors and greater intent.

Add Contact and Deal Note Actions

The **Add Note** actions now support easier access to personalization. You can include dynamic content using a wide variety of tags.

To configure a note action:

  1. Click on the **+** icon in the automation workflow.
  2. Go to **CRM** > **Add Contact Note** or **Add Deal Note**.
  3. In the note editor, use the **Personalization Tag** selector to insert customized values.
  4. Available tags now include:
  - **Contact Fields**
  - **Deal Fields**
  - **Account Fields**
  - **Custom Object Fields**

This update lets your internal notes be more descriptive and actionable, adapting based on the contact’s individual details.

Site Message Action

The **Site Message** action has undergone a complete layout redesign for better usability and customization.

Steps to configure:

  1. Add the **Site Message** action within your automation.
  2. Choose whether to create a new message or select an existing one.
  3. Specify message placement using the updated interface:
  - Determine where on the webpage it will appear (e.g., top, bottom, overlay)
  - Select visual effects (slide in, fade, etc.)
  1. Customize targeting criteria as needed (e.g., returning visitors or subscribers).

This improvement makes it easier to deliver contextually relevant site experiences without needing technical workarounds.

Configuration Options and Settings

Each updated action includes unique configuration enhancements:

  • Split Action:
 - Even Split or Conditional Split
 - Segmentation Builder (with new segment types)
  • Start/End Automation:
 - Visual selection interface with **automation previews**, organized by status
  • Add Contact/Deal Note:
 - Insert dynamic values using the expanded Personalization Tag Selector
 - Tags available for **Contacts**, **Deals**, **Accounts**, and **Custom Objects**
  • Site Message:
 - Select placement and visual effects
 - Choose from saved messages or create a new one
 - Define advanced display settings, such as timing or frequency

Best Practices and Tips

To maximize the value of these updates:

  • Use the Conditional Split with new segment types like **Campaign Event Time Window** to customize experiences based on campaign interactions.
  • Label your automations clearly—this helps when browsing the new visual list under **Start/End Other Automation**.
  • Take advantage of the expanded **personalization tags** to create detailed internal context for your contacts and deals.
  • Keep message design concise in **Site Messages**, and utilize newly added placement options to minimize user disruption.
  • Test automation branches regularly using the **Split Action** to optimize outcomes with data-backed decisions.

Common Use Cases with Examples

  • **A/B Testing Welcome Sequences**: Use the enhanced **Split Action** to test different email sequences depending on engagement behavior.
  • **Re-Engagement Based on Campaign Activity**: Use **Conditional Split** to create re-engagement flows for contacts active within specific **Campaign Event Time Windows**.
  • **Triggering Coordinated Campaigns**: Leverage **Start Other Automation** to initiate a follow-up series from a product availability trigger.
  • **Internal CRM Coordination**: Use **Add Deal Note** to notify sales of contact activity with personalization like "Viewed Site Message on Product Page".
  • **On-Site Promotions**: Deploy **Site Messages** that show discount codes only to returning visitors based on their automation path.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues using the updated automation actions:

  • Make sure your automation is **active** or in **editing mode** to apply and test changes.
  • If an automation option doesn’t appear under **Start/End Automation**, verify that it exists in your account and hasn’t been deleted.
  • Site Messages may not appear on your site if the placement settings are not compatible with your site layout—check message type and visibility rules.
  • If personalization tags don’t populate, confirm that the appropriate field values exist for the contact or deal at runtime.

Related Features

For additional depth on related functionality, see:

Also see these dedicated guides:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these action updates available to all users?

Yes. These enhancements are available to users on all plan types, including Starter, Plus, Pro, and Enterprise.

What’s the difference between the new Split options and the older version?

The new **Split Action** includes a dedicated area for **Even Split** and **Conditional Split**, with a more robust segmentation builder and access to new data dimensions like **Custom Objects** and **1:1 Emails**.

Can I preview automations when selecting them using the Start/End Other Automation action?

Yes. The updated interface includes previews, showing names and labels to help you select the correct automation without scrolling blind through dropdowns.

What types of personalization tags are supported in note actions?

Tags from **Contacts**, **Deals**, **Accounts**, and **Custom Objects** can now be added directly via the **Note Editor**, making note content adaptable to each recipient’s data.

Will existing notes or automations break due to these updates?

No. These are enhancements to the interface and flexibility of actions. Your existing automations will continue functioning as configured. You may, however, benefit from revisiting them to take advantage of the new features.

Are Site Message fields different now?

Yes. The new layout allows for visual customization of **location**, **display effects**, and better message management, all within a simplified setup flow.

Where can I learn more about these features?

Refer to the Automation guide, or visit the individual action documentation provided in the Resources section above. You can also explore platform updates on the ActiveCampaign Release Updates page.

These Action Updates are part of ActiveCampaign’s mission to streamline intelligent marketing automation. By using these redesigned tools, you can implement faster, more effective campaigns with fewer missteps, personalized outcomes, and higher engagement.

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