Automation Canvas Enhancements: Difference between revisions

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]] > [[2024 Release Notes]] > Automation Canvas Enhancements
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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Automations]] > Automation Canvas Enhancements


= Automation Canvas Enhancements =
= Automation Canvas Enhancements =


== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==
The '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''' are a series of improvements designed to enrich the automation experience within ActiveCampaign. These enhancements focus on usability and efficiency, ensuring that users can navigate and utilize the automation features more effectively. Whether you're building complex workflows or simple automation processes, these tools will significantly enhance your operational efficiency and speed. The improvements aim to provide a smoother, faster, and more intuitive workflow, underscoring the importance of every detail in the automation experience.


The **Automation Canvas Enhancements**, released in August 2024, represent a significant upgrade to the user experience within ActiveCampaign's automation builder. Designed with usability and efficiency in mind, these improvements introduce a series of thoughtful quality-of-life features that make building, navigating, and managing complex automations more intuitive and visually manageable.
== How to Access ==
 
To access the enhanced automation canvas features, you need an ActiveCampaign account on any of the available plans. Log in to your ActiveCampaign dashboard, navigate to the '''Automations''' tab, and select any existing automation or create a new one. The new features will be available within the automation builder interface.
From increased visualization capabilities with the new **Automation Minimap**, to improved precision with new **Zoom Controls**, these enhancements streamline the workflow for marketers and automation builders. Whether you're fine-tuning customer journeys or reviewing high-level automation strategy, the updated canvas provides the tools to work smarter, not harder.
 
This release also introduces a **simplified canvas design**, automatic flow-end detection, and the ability to **export workflows as PNGs**—ideal for team sharing, documentation, or strategy reviews. These updates align with ActiveCampaign’s continued effort to support marketing professionals in creating customer experiences that are both automated and personal.
 
== How to Access the Automation Canvas Enhancements ==
 
The **Automation Canvas Enhancements** are automatically available across all ActiveCampaign plans with no additional setup required. Simply access the existing automation builder to start using the latest features.
 
Steps to access:
# Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
# Navigate to the **Automations** section from the left-hand menu.
# Click **Create an Automation** or open an existing one.
# The enhancements will be visible in the updated canvas interface.
 
There is no need to activate features manually or upgrade your subscription tier to benefit from these enhancements.


== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
Follow these steps to utilize the new features of the Automation Canvas:


Below is a walkthrough of how to engage with each of the key features introduced in the Automation Canvas Enhancements.
1. **Log in** to your ActiveCampaign account.
 
2. Click on the '''Automations''' tab in the main navigation menu.
=== Using the Automation Minimap ===
3. Select an existing automation or choose the option to create a new automation.
The **Automation Minimap** offers a bird’s-eye view of your entire workflow.
4. You will now see the updated automation canvas with the following features:
 
  - **Automation minimap**: Utilize the minimap function to get an overview of your entire workflow.
# Open any automation.
  - **Zoom controls**: Adjust your view with the provided zoom controls to either zoom in for detailed adjustments or zoom out to see everything at once.
# Look in the corner of the automation builder for the visual **minimap overlay**.
  - **Fit to Screen**: Click on the '''Fit to Screen''' option to optimize your workspace for a comprehensive view of your automation.
# Use this view to quickly identify where you're working within larger, complex automations.
  - **Download automation as a PNG**: Use the option to download your workflow as a PNG for easy sharing and review.
# Click and drag the minimap grid to navigate.
  - **Improved "Go To" actions**: Notice the enhanced usability in directing the flow with '''Go To''' actions. This makes the process more intuitive.
 
  - **Automatic End Automation Indicator**: Observe that the builder automatically adds an end automation indicator if there are no further actions, saving you time and effort.
=== Adjusting Zoom Controls ===
  - Enjoy the overall modernized design of the automation builder, which is aimed at providing a quick and smooth building experience even with complex workflows.
Granular control over your automation view allows for better visibility and precision.
 
# Find the **Zoom Controls** panel—usually located in the lower corner of the canvas interface.
# Click the **plus ( + )** icon to zoom in for precise node adjustments.
# Click the **minus ( – )** icon to zoom out for an overview.
# Use the **scroll wheel** (on supported devices) for quick zoom.
 
=== Fitting to Screen ===
This is useful when working with large automations that extend beyond the default view.
 
# Open your automation.
# Click the **Fit to Screen** button (often represented by a magnifying glass or frame icon).
# The automation canvas will auto-adjust to fit the entire workflow into view.
 
=== Downloading Your Automation as a PNG ===
Export and share workflows visually without granting platform access.
 
# Open the desired automation.
# Click the **Download as PNG** option from the toolbar.
# Save the file to your device and share it in reports, presentations, or documentation.
 
=== Using Enhanced “Go To” Actions ===
“Go To” actions now provide a smoother experience when redirecting automation flow.
 
# Drag a **“Go To”** action onto the canvas from the action menu.
# Select your target step more intuitively, as improvements streamline this connection.
# The system highlights eligible destinations and makes configuration more apparent.
 
=== Understanding the Automatic End Automation Indicator ===
Manual placement of an "End Automation" action is no longer required.
 
# As you build, if a path concludes with no further actions, a subtle **end marker** will appear automatically.
# This helps identify endpoints efficiently without the need to add a manual termination step.


== Configuration Options and Settings ==
== Configuration Options and Settings ==
The enhancements introduced in the automation canvas include several new features you can configure to optimize your workflows:


The enhancements are built directly into the automation canvas, so there are no standalone configuration menus required. However, key elements and controls include:
- **Automation minimap**: A visual overview to help you see the broader context of your automations.
 
- **Zoom controls**: Tools to fine-tune your view, making it easier to adjust and plan automations.
* '''Zoom Controls''': Adjust viewing scale via buttons or scrollwheel
- **Fit to Screen**: A feature that adjusts the canvas to show your entire automation without scrolling.
* '''Fit to Screen''': Reframes automation to fit the visible canvas
- **Download automation as a PNG**: Provides an easy way to export your automations for outside sharing.
* '''Automation Minimap''': Provides a navigable overview map
- **Go To actions**: Enhanced usability in managing how and where your automation flows to different actions.
* '''Go To Actions''': Improved interface for redirecting flows
- **End Automation Indicator**: Automatically allocates an end point when needed, streamlining your workflow creation.
* '''Download as PNG''': Export canvas snapshot for offline use
- **Sleek design**: A visually appealing and functional interface that retains power while improving user experience.
* '''End Automation Marker''': Automatically added where flow concludes
 
These options appear contextually in the updated canvas, improving workflow responsiveness and minimizing clutter.


== Best Practices and Tips ==
== Best Practices and Tips ==
To maximize the benefits of the Automation Canvas Enhancements, consider the following best practices:


To get the most out of the Automation Canvas Enhancements, consider the following best practices:
- Regularly utilize the **Fit to Screen** and **zoom controls** to maintain clarity in complex workflows.
 
- Download automations as **PNG files** for documentation or collaborative reviews with other team members.
* **Use the minimap when editing extensive workflows**: This helps you avoid getting lost in nested sequences or complex logic branches.
- Take advantage of the **automatic end automation indicator** by reviewing your workflows to ensure everything flows as intended without unnecessary steps.
* **Zoom in when adding expressions or conditions**: Improving focus on intricate logic makes building error-free automations easier.
- Leverage the **automation minimap** to plan and visualize alterations to your automations comprehensively.
* **Export PNGs regularly**: Especially useful for documenting version changes or sharing strategy with stakeholders during team reviews.
* **Let the system end your flows**: Rely on the automatic end indicator instead of cluttering your automation with unnecessary end markers.
* **Label "Go To" actions descriptively**: Even though usability has improved, clear labels and structure prevent confusion during future edits.
 
== Common Use Cases with Examples ==
 
=== Marketing Teams Reviewing Campaigns ===
Teams can now **export the automation as a PNG**, making it easy to include workflow structure in campaign planning meetings or slide decks.
 
=== Streamlining Complex Logic ===
If your automation branches extensively, the **minimap** and **zoom controls** help you stay oriented and avoid misplacements or redundancies.
 
=== Customer Experience Mapping ===
Brands mapping journey stages across touchpoints use **fit-to-screen** to review customer paths from start to finish.
 
=== Multiple Editors or Roles ===
Collaborators editing the same automation benefit from enhanced visibility and clarity using the **improved Go To actions** and overview features.
 
=== Compliance and Documentation ===
Marketing and compliance teams can now export visual workflow snapshots to document how data flows and decisions are automated.


== Troubleshooting ==
== Troubleshooting ==
While the enhancements are designed to improve your automation experience, you may occasionally encounter issues. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:


While the Automation Canvas Enhancements are designed to improve usability, you may encounter the following scenarios:
- **Feature not loading**: Ensure your browser is updated. Sometimes, simply refreshing the page may resolve temporary glitches.
 
- **Zoom controls not functioning**: Check if any browser extensions may be interfering. Disabling them and refreshing the page could solve the issue.
* **Zoom controls not visible**: Confirm you're working in the automation canvas and that your browser or screen resolution supports the new interface.
- **Issues with downloading PNGs**: Confirm that your internet connection is stable and retry the download.
* **Minimap missing**: Refresh the page or reopen the automation; the minimap should load by default in a supported workspace.
* **PNG download fails**: Ensure pop-ups and downloads are allowed in your browser settings.
* **Flow does not end where expected**: Check if any conditional branches continue beyond the last visible action; the automatic end indicator only appears when the system recognizes a terminal path.
 
For platform bugs or persistent UI issues, consider clearing your browser cache or trying a different browser.


== Related Features ==
== Related Features ==
 
For more in-depth information on the various functionalities within ActiveCampaign, refer to the following related features:
To learn more about automation functionality and enhancements, explore:
- [[Automations]]: General overview of automation functionality.
 
- [[Automation Triggers]]: Conditions that start Automation workflows.
* [[2024 Release Notes]]
* [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]]
* [[Automation]]
* [[AI Campaign Follow Up]]
* [[Use Conditional Content]]
* [[Updated Link Modal]]


== FAQ ==
== FAQ ==


=== Do I need to enable the Automation Canvas Enhancements? ===
'''Q1: Are the Automation Canvas Enhancements available on all plans?''' 
No. These enhancements are automatically available on all ActiveCampaign plans without additional configuration.
A1: Yes, these enhancements are accessible on all ActiveCampaign plans.
 
=== Can I revert back to the old canvas? ===
No. The new automation canvas fully replaces the previous version and is designed to be backwards compatible with all workflows.
 
=== Where is the “Fit to Screen” button located? ===
The **Fit to Screen** button is part of the canvas toolbar. It is typically located near the **Zoom Controls**, depending on screen layout.


=== Can I share the automation PNG file with non-ActiveCampaign users? ===
'''Q2: How can I share my automations with my team?''' 
Yes. Once downloaded, the image file can be shared freely outside of ActiveCampaign for collaboration or documentation purposes.
A2: You can share your workflows by downloading them as PNG files, which can be easily shared via email or other platforms.


=== Is the download PNG feature available on all plans? ===
'''Q3: What is the purpose of the automation minimap?''' 
Yes, all Automation Canvas Enhancements, including PNG export, are enabled across all plan levels.
A3: The minimap provides an overview of your entire automation workflow so you can see the structure and flow at a glance.


=== What determines when the End Automation Indicator appears? ===
'''Q4: Do I still need to add an end automation action?''' 
The indicator appears automatically when the system detects the end of a branch or path within your workflow that has no further configurations.
A4: No, the builder automatically adds an end automation indicator if there are no subsequent actions, saving you time.


=== Why did my “Go To” action not link properly? ===
'''Q5: Can I customize the zoom level?''' 
Ensure the destination step exists and is valid for redirection. The enhanced interface highlights valid links dynamically as you set them up.
A5: Yes, you can use the zoom controls to adjust the view according to your preference, allowing for detailed adjustments or broader overviews.


== Conclusion ==
'''Q6: How do I access the new features in my existing automations?''' 
A6: Simply log in to your account and access any automation from the '''Automations''' tab to utilize the new features.


The **Automation Canvas Enhancements** embody ActiveCampaign's commitment to intuitive, feature-rich automation. By refining productivity features like zooming, flow visualization, and exportability, users can now create, review, and share complex workflows with more confidence and ease than ever.
'''Q7: What should I do if I experience issues with the new features?''' 
A7: If you encounter issues, refresh your browser, check for updates, or refer to our troubleshooting tips above.


These improvements not only increase operational speed but also expand the strategic visibility needed to scale successful automations. Explore these features in your account and experience a new standard in marketing automation firsthand.
By understanding and utilizing the Automation Canvas Enhancements, you can significantly elevate your user experience within ActiveCampaign, ultimately leading to better automation workflows and increased productivity.
```

Revision as of 07:00, 3 November 2025

```mediawiki Navigation: Main_Page > Automations > Automation Canvas Enhancements

Automation Canvas Enhancements

Introduction

The Automation Canvas Enhancements are a series of improvements designed to enrich the automation experience within ActiveCampaign. These enhancements focus on usability and efficiency, ensuring that users can navigate and utilize the automation features more effectively. Whether you're building complex workflows or simple automation processes, these tools will significantly enhance your operational efficiency and speed. The improvements aim to provide a smoother, faster, and more intuitive workflow, underscoring the importance of every detail in the automation experience.

How to Access

To access the enhanced automation canvas features, you need an ActiveCampaign account on any of the available plans. Log in to your ActiveCampaign dashboard, navigate to the Automations tab, and select any existing automation or create a new one. The new features will be available within the automation builder interface.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to utilize the new features of the Automation Canvas:

1. **Log in** to your ActiveCampaign account. 2. Click on the Automations tab in the main navigation menu. 3. Select an existing automation or choose the option to create a new automation. 4. You will now see the updated automation canvas with the following features: 

  - **Automation minimap**: Utilize the minimap function to get an overview of your entire workflow.
  - **Zoom controls**: Adjust your view with the provided zoom controls to either zoom in for detailed adjustments or zoom out to see everything at once.
  - **Fit to Screen**: Click on the Fit to Screen option to optimize your workspace for a comprehensive view of your automation.
  - **Download automation as a PNG**: Use the option to download your workflow as a PNG for easy sharing and review.
  - **Improved "Go To" actions**: Notice the enhanced usability in directing the flow with Go To actions. This makes the process more intuitive.
  - **Automatic End Automation Indicator**: Observe that the builder automatically adds an end automation indicator if there are no further actions, saving you time and effort.
  - Enjoy the overall modernized design of the automation builder, which is aimed at providing a quick and smooth building experience even with complex workflows.

Configuration Options and Settings

The enhancements introduced in the automation canvas include several new features you can configure to optimize your workflows:

- **Automation minimap**: A visual overview to help you see the broader context of your automations. - **Zoom controls**: Tools to fine-tune your view, making it easier to adjust and plan automations. - **Fit to Screen**: A feature that adjusts the canvas to show your entire automation without scrolling. - **Download automation as a PNG**: Provides an easy way to export your automations for outside sharing. - **Go To actions**: Enhanced usability in managing how and where your automation flows to different actions. - **End Automation Indicator**: Automatically allocates an end point when needed, streamlining your workflow creation. - **Sleek design**: A visually appealing and functional interface that retains power while improving user experience.

Best Practices and Tips

To maximize the benefits of the Automation Canvas Enhancements, consider the following best practices:

- Regularly utilize the **Fit to Screen** and **zoom controls** to maintain clarity in complex workflows. - Download automations as **PNG files** for documentation or collaborative reviews with other team members. - Take advantage of the **automatic end automation indicator** by reviewing your workflows to ensure everything flows as intended without unnecessary steps. - Leverage the **automation minimap** to plan and visualize alterations to your automations comprehensively.

Troubleshooting

While the enhancements are designed to improve your automation experience, you may occasionally encounter issues. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

- **Feature not loading**: Ensure your browser is updated. Sometimes, simply refreshing the page may resolve temporary glitches. - **Zoom controls not functioning**: Check if any browser extensions may be interfering. Disabling them and refreshing the page could solve the issue. - **Issues with downloading PNGs**: Confirm that your internet connection is stable and retry the download.

Related Features

For more in-depth information on the various functionalities within ActiveCampaign, refer to the following related features: - Automations: General overview of automation functionality. - Automation Triggers: Conditions that start Automation workflows.

FAQ

Q1: Are the Automation Canvas Enhancements available on all plans? A1: Yes, these enhancements are accessible on all ActiveCampaign plans.

Q2: How can I share my automations with my team? A2: You can share your workflows by downloading them as PNG files, which can be easily shared via email or other platforms.

Q3: What is the purpose of the automation minimap? A3: The minimap provides an overview of your entire automation workflow so you can see the structure and flow at a glance.

Q4: Do I still need to add an end automation action? A4: No, the builder automatically adds an end automation indicator if there are no subsequent actions, saving you time.

Q5: Can I customize the zoom level? A5: Yes, you can use the zoom controls to adjust the view according to your preference, allowing for detailed adjustments or broader overviews.

Q6: How do I access the new features in my existing automations? A6: Simply log in to your account and access any automation from the Automations tab to utilize the new features.

Q7: What should I do if I experience issues with the new features? A7: If you encounter issues, refresh your browser, check for updates, or refer to our troubleshooting tips above.

By understanding and utilizing the Automation Canvas Enhancements, you can significantly elevate your user experience within ActiveCampaign, ultimately leading to better automation workflows and increased productivity. ```

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