Create and save segments

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Create and Save Segments

Introduction

Using segments in ActiveCampaign enables users to categorize and tailor their contact lists effectively. Segments allow for targeted marketing by enabling businesses to focus their messaging based on specific criteria or behaviors. This is crucial for improving engagement rates, ensuring that campaigns resonate with the intended audience, and maximizing conversion opportunities.

In this article, you will learn how to create and save segments, including the steps to navigate through the segment builder and apply conditions that precisely target your desired contacts.

How to Access This Feature

You can access the segment builder in various areas within ActiveCampaign, including:

• **Segments Overview Page**:

 - Click on **Contacts** > **Segments** on the left navigation menu. 
 - On this page, you will also find the option to create a new segment.

• **Advanced Search**:

 - Navigate to **Contacts** and use the **Search contacts** field, then select **Advanced Search** to access the segment builder at the top of the page.

• **Campaign Creation**:

 - When creating a campaign by clicking **Campaigns**, you can incorporate segments under the **Recipient Selection** section.

The segment builder can also be utilized in other features, such as creating contact and deal scores, setting up automation triggers, and defining automation actions like **If / Else** and **Wait** conditions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Navigate to the Segment Builder

Follow these steps to reach the segment builder:

• **From Segments Overview Page**:

 1. Select **Contacts** > **Segments**.
 2. Click the **Create a Segment** button.

• **From Advanced Search**:

 1. Go to **Contacts** and click the **Search contacts** field.
 2. Then, click **Advanced Search**.

• **From Campaign Creation**:

 1. Navigate to **Campaigns**.
 2. Choose either **Create a Campaign** or select an existing one.
 3. In the **Recipient Selection** section, select the desired lists.
 4. Click on the **Send to** field, then select **Send using custom conditions** to open the segment builder.

Step 2: Build and Save Your Segment Conditions

Once you are in the segment builder, follow these steps:

1. Click on the left field labeled **(Select a condition)** to display available condition categories. 2. Choose a condition from your selected category. 3. If required, define an operator by selecting from the middle field. 4. Enter a value for your condition in the right field.

For instance, to set conditions for a segment, you could opt for **Tag exists** or other specified conditions.

5. (Optional) If using the Advanced Search or during campaign creation, check **Save as a new segment** and provide a name and optional description. 6. Click **Save**; your saved segments will reside on the Segments Overview page.

Step 3: (Optional) Add Multiple Conditions to Your Segment

To refine your segment further:

1. Click on **+ Add another condition** to input additional criteria. 2. Use the toggle to choose between **And** or **Or** logic for how these conditions combine:

  - **And**: All conditions must be met.
  - **Or**: Any one of the conditions may be met.

Step 4: (Optional) Create Condition Groups

For complex criteria, utilize condition groups to combine multiple conditions:

1. Click the **Add Condition Group** button to group conditions using "And" and "Or" logic. 2. Remember, you must create new groups for combining different logic types.

Step 5: (Optional) Use Saved Segments

If you utilize a saved segment:

1. At the bottom of the segment builder, access **Saved Segments**. 2. Select a saved segment condition to incorporate into your active segment. 3. Apply these conditions to build upon existing ones, ensuring time-saving consistency.

Configuration Options and Settings

When working with segments, keep in mind the following limitations and settings:

• Segments can have up to 20 conditions.
• Up to five Action conditions can be included in a segment.
• The Contains operator is limited to three conditions.

It's also important to note:

• Updating segment names or conditions will reflect in all past campaign reports.
• If a segment is deleted, all data associated with it is permanently lost.

Best Practices and Tips

When creating and managing segments, consider the following best practices:

• **Create New Segments for Campaign Sends**: Instead of modifying an existing segment, create a new one to keep historical data intact in reports.
• **Check for Action Conditions**: Be cautious about the five-action condition limit to avoid oversights.
• **Regularly Update Your Segments**: Engagement trends can change; regularly assess your segment criteria.
• **Utilize Condition Groups Wisely**: For complex targeting, use condition groups to effectively combine diverse criteria.
• **Leverage Saved Segments**: Maximize efficiency by saving frequently used segments and adapt them as needed for various campaigns.

Troubleshooting

Common issues you may encounter when creating segments include:

• **Not Seeing Expected Contacts**: Ensure your conditions are accurately defined and within the limits permitted.
• **Errors on Saving Segments**: Verify all fields are filled out correctly, and that you comply with the segment limitations.
• **Lost Segments After Deletion**: Remember that deleted segments cannot be restored; always double-check before deleting a segment.

Related Features

For further assistance and related functionalities, explore the following:

• Segments: To dive deeper into segment capabilities.
• Automation: To learn how segments interact within automated workflows.
• Campaigns: To understand how to effectively use segments within your messaging campaigns.

FAQ

1. **What types of segments can I create?**

  You can create segments based on various conditions such as tags, engagement, location, and more.

2. **Can I modify a segment after saving it?**

  Yes, you can reset or modify existing segments or create new ones based on changes.

3. **What happens if I delete a segment?**

  All data associated with the segment is permanently removed and cannot be recovered.

4. **How many conditions can I have in one segment?**

  You can include up to 20 conditions in a single segment.

5. **Is there a way to combine different logic types in one segment?**

  To mix "And" and "Or" logic, you must create separate condition groups for each logic type.

6. **Will segment changes affect past campaigns?**

  Yes, any updates to segment names or conditions will be reflected in all past campaign reports.

7. **How can I easily find saved segments?**

  Use the search bar in the Saved Segments section of the segment builder to quickly locate your saved segments.

By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to create and save segments within ActiveCampaign. For more information on related features and best practices, consult additional resources within the ActiveCampaign knowledge base. ```