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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 ==
 
The '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''' feature in ActiveCampaign is an important upgrade that significantly enhances the user experience in creating and managing automation workflows. With a series of subtle yet impactful updates to the automation canvas, users can expect improved usability, functionality, and an overall faster experience when loading and navigating their automations. This article will provide an in-depth look at what’s new, how to access these features, step-by-step instructions for utilizing them, and best practices for maximizing your use of this powerful tool.


== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==


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.
Automation plays a crucial role in modern marketing strategies, allowing businesses to engage with customers efficiently while reducing manual efforts. The enhancements introduced to the Automation Canvas are designed to streamline this process even further. The new features enable users to visualize, adjust, and share their automation plans with greater ease, ultimately leading to more effective marketing campaigns.
 
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:
== How to Access this Feature ==
# 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.
To access the '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''', simply log in to your ActiveCampaign account, navigate to the [[Automations]] section, and select any automation workflow to view the updated canvas. The enhancements are available across all subscription plans, ensuring that every user benefits from these productivity-boosting features.


== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
== Step-by-Step Instructions ==


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. Navigate to the **Automations** tab in the main navigation menu.
=== Using the Automation Minimap ===
3. Select an existing automation or create a new one to open the automation canvas.
The **Automation Minimap** offers a bird’s-eye view of your entire workflow.
4. Once in the canvas, take advantage of the following enhancements:
 
# Open any automation.
# Look in the corner of the automation builder for the visual **minimap overlay**.
# Use this view to quickly identify where you're working within larger, complex automations.
# Click and drag the minimap grid to navigate.
 
=== Adjusting Zoom Controls ===
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.
  === Navigation Minimap ===
# Click the **Fit to Screen** button (often represented by a magnifying glass or frame icon).
  - View the new '''Automation minimap''' located at the top right of the canvas, which provides a visual summary of your entire workflow. This diminutive overview allows you to zone in on specific sections or see how the components relate to each other.
# The automation canvas will auto-adjust to fit the entire workflow into view.


=== Downloading Your Automation as a PNG ===
  === Zoom Controls ===
Export and share workflows visually without granting platform access.
  - Utilize the '''Zoom controls''' located at the bottom right of the canvas to adjust your view. You can zoom in for detailed adjustments or zoom out for a broader perspective of your automation design.


# Open the desired automation.
  === Fit to Screen ===
# Click the **Download as PNG** option from the toolbar.
  - Implement the '''Fit to Screen''' option to automatically resize the canvas so that your entire automation fits within the viewable area, making navigation easier.
# Save the file to your device and share it in reports, presentations, or documentation.


=== Using Enhanced “Go To” Actions ===
  === Download Automation as PNG ===
“Go To” actions now provide a smoother experience when redirecting automation flow.
  - To share or evaluate your workflows, click the option to '''Download automation as PNG''', which exports your canvas into a PNG file format for easy distribution.


# Drag a **“Go To”** action onto the canvas from the action menu.
  === Improved Usability for ‘Go To’ Actions ===
# Select your target step more intuitively, as improvements streamline this connection.
  - Utilize the enhanced usability of '''Go To''' actions for easier direction commands within your automations, ensuring a smoother flow without confusion.
# The system highlights eligible destinations and makes configuration more apparent.


=== Understanding the Automatic End Automation Indicator ===
  === Automatic End Automation Indicator ===
Manual placement of an "End Automation" action is no longer required.
  - Enjoy the feature that automatically adds an '''End Automation Indicator''' when there are no further actions following a trigger, streamlining the setup process by removing the need for manual edits.


# As you build, if a path concludes with no further actions, a subtle **end marker** will appear automatically.
  === Sleek New Design ===
# This helps identify endpoints efficiently without the need to add a manual termination step.
  - Experience the modernized interface of the automation builder, which maintains the same powerful capabilities while providing an optimized design for responsiveness.


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


The enhancements are built directly into the automation canvas, so there are no standalone configuration menus required. However, key elements and controls include:
The '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''' come equipped with several intuitive configuration options to assist users:


* '''Zoom Controls''': Adjust viewing scale via buttons or scrollwheel
- **Automation minimap** for overall workflow visibility
* '''Fit to Screen''': Reframes automation to fit the visible canvas
- **Zoom controls** for precise adjustments
* '''Automation Minimap''': Provides a navigable overview map
- **Fit to Screen** functionality for comprehensive automation overview
* '''Go To Actions''': Improved interface for redirecting flows
- **Download automation as PNG** feature for easy sharing
* '''Download as PNG''': Export canvas snapshot for offline use
- **Improved usability for ‘Go To’ actions** to enhance the intuitiveness of flow direction
* '''End Automation Marker''': Automatically added where flow concludes
- **Automatic End Automation Indicator** that simplifies workflow conclusion
- **Modernized design** that enhances performance and user satisfaction


These options appear contextually in the updated canvas, improving workflow responsiveness and minimizing clutter.
These enhancements are designed to be intuitive and do not require extensive setup beyond initial access.


== Best Practices and Tips ==
== Best Practices and Tips ==


To get the most out of the Automation Canvas Enhancements, consider the following best practices:
To maximize the benefits of the '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''', consider the following best practices:
 
* **Use the minimap when editing extensive workflows**: This helps you avoid getting lost in nested sequences or complex logic branches.
* **Zoom in when adding expressions or conditions**: Improving focus on intricate logic makes building error-free automations easier.
* **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 ===
- Regularly review the minimap to keep track of complex workflows effectively.
Marketing and compliance teams can now export visual workflow snapshots to document how data flows and decisions are automated.
- Use the '''Zoom controls''' to focus on sections of your automation when making detailed adjustments.
- Take advantage of the '''Fit to Screen''' option to quickly understand the overall layout before starting modifications.
- Utilize the option to '''Download automation as PNG''' for team discussions or reviews to gain feedback on workflows.
- Familiarize yourself with the improved usability of the '''Go To''' actions to enhance workflow logic and user experience.
- Make use of the automatic functionalities to minimize manual edits and errors, particularly concerning end points in automations.


== Troubleshooting ==
== Troubleshooting ==


While the Automation Canvas Enhancements are designed to improve usability, you may encounter the following scenarios:
While most users will experience seamless integration with the '''Automation Canvas Enhancements''', should you encounter any issues, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
 
* **Zoom controls not visible**: Confirm you're working in the automation canvas and that your browser or screen resolution supports the new interface.
* **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 ==
 
To learn more about automation functionality and enhancements, explore:


* [[2024 Release Notes]]
- Ensure that your browser is updated and compatible with ActiveCampaign.
* [[ActiveCampaign Release Notes]]
- If loading times are longer than expected, try refreshing the page or clearing your browser cache.
* [[Automation]]
- For any persistent usability issues, consult ActiveCampaign's support resources or reach out to customer support for further assistance.
* [[AI Campaign Follow Up]]
* [[Use Conditional Content]]
* [[Updated Link Modal]]


== FAQ ==
== FAQ ==


=== Do I need to enable the Automation Canvas Enhancements? ===
=== What changes were made to the automation canvas? ===
No. These enhancements are automatically available on all ActiveCampaign plans without additional configuration.
The enhancements include a navigation minimap, zoom controls, a fit to screen feature, PNG downloading, improved usability for Go To actions, an automatic end automation indicator, and a new sleek design.


=== Can I revert back to the old canvas? ===
=== Is there an additional cost for using these enhancements? ===
No. The new automation canvas fully replaces the previous version and is designed to be backwards compatible with all workflows.
No, these enhancements are available for all users across all subscription plans without any additional cost.


=== Where is the “Fit to Screen” button located? ===
=== How can I download my automation canvas? ===
The **Fit to Screen** button is part of the canvas toolbar. It is typically located near the **Zoom Controls**, depending on screen layout.
You can download your automation by selecting the download option that saves your workflow as a PNG file.


=== Can I share the automation PNG file with non-ActiveCampaign users? ===
=== Are there any new functionalities for directing flows in automations? ===
Yes. Once downloaded, the image file can be shared freely outside of ActiveCampaign for collaboration or documentation purposes.
Yes, the usability for '''Go To''' actions has been enhanced, making it more intuitive to redirect the flow of automations.


=== Is the download PNG feature available on all plans? ===
=== What if I forget to add an end action to my automation? ===
Yes, all Automation Canvas Enhancements, including PNG export, are enabled across all plan levels.
The new automatic end automation indicator will save you from this, as it will be added automatically if there are no further actions.


=== What determines when the End Automation Indicator appears? ===
=== How can I fit my entire automation on the screen? ===
The indicator appears automatically when the system detects the end of a branch or path within your workflow that has no further configurations.
Utilize the '''Fit to Screen''' option to automatically adjust the canvas so that your entire automation workflow appears within your view.


=== Why did my “Go To” action not link properly? ===
=== Where can I find more information about these features? ===
Ensure the destination step exists and is valid for redirection. The enhanced interface highlights valid links dynamically as you set them up.
For a deeper dive, refer to the additional resources provided, including [https://www.activecampaign.com/blog/2024-automation-enhancements setting new standards for marketing automation in 2024] and [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/14852948033820-How-to-view-your-automation how to view your automation].


== Conclusion ==
== Additional Resources ==


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.
For more information on automation enhancements, please refer to the following:


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.
* [https://www.activecampaign.com/blog/2024-automation-enhancements Setting new standards for marketing automation in 2024]
* [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/14852948033820-How-to-view-your-automation How to view your automation]
```

Latest revision as of 07:05, 3 November 2025

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

Automation Canvas Enhancements[edit | edit source]

The Automation Canvas Enhancements feature in ActiveCampaign is an important upgrade that significantly enhances the user experience in creating and managing automation workflows. With a series of subtle yet impactful updates to the automation canvas, users can expect improved usability, functionality, and an overall faster experience when loading and navigating their automations. This article will provide an in-depth look at what’s new, how to access these features, step-by-step instructions for utilizing them, and best practices for maximizing your use of this powerful tool.

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Automation plays a crucial role in modern marketing strategies, allowing businesses to engage with customers efficiently while reducing manual efforts. The enhancements introduced to the Automation Canvas are designed to streamline this process even further. The new features enable users to visualize, adjust, and share their automation plans with greater ease, ultimately leading to more effective marketing campaigns.

How to Access this Feature[edit | edit source]

To access the Automation Canvas Enhancements, simply log in to your ActiveCampaign account, navigate to the Automations section, and select any automation workflow to view the updated canvas. The enhancements are available across all subscription plans, ensuring that every user benefits from these productivity-boosting features.

Step-by-Step Instructions[edit | edit source]

1. **Log in** to your ActiveCampaign account. 2. Navigate to the **Automations** tab in the main navigation menu. 3. Select an existing automation or create a new one to open the automation canvas. 4. Once in the canvas, take advantage of the following enhancements: 

  === Navigation Minimap ===
  - View the new Automation minimap located at the top right of the canvas, which provides a visual summary of your entire workflow. This diminutive overview allows you to zone in on specific sections or see how the components relate to each other.

  === Zoom Controls ===
  - Utilize the Zoom controls located at the bottom right of the canvas to adjust your view. You can zoom in for detailed adjustments or zoom out for a broader perspective of your automation design.

  === Fit to Screen ===
  - Implement the Fit to Screen option to automatically resize the canvas so that your entire automation fits within the viewable area, making navigation easier.

  === Download Automation as PNG ===
  - To share or evaluate your workflows, click the option to Download automation as PNG, which exports your canvas into a PNG file format for easy distribution.

  === Improved Usability for ‘Go To’ Actions ===
  - Utilize the enhanced usability of Go To actions for easier direction commands within your automations, ensuring a smoother flow without confusion.

  === Automatic End Automation Indicator ===
  - Enjoy the feature that automatically adds an End Automation Indicator when there are no further actions following a trigger, streamlining the setup process by removing the need for manual edits.

  === Sleek New Design ===
  - Experience the modernized interface of the automation builder, which maintains the same powerful capabilities while providing an optimized design for responsiveness.

Configuration Options and Settings[edit | edit source]

The Automation Canvas Enhancements come equipped with several intuitive configuration options to assist users:

- **Automation minimap** for overall workflow visibility - **Zoom controls** for precise adjustments - **Fit to Screen** functionality for comprehensive automation overview - **Download automation as PNG** feature for easy sharing - **Improved usability for ‘Go To’ actions** to enhance the intuitiveness of flow direction - **Automatic End Automation Indicator** that simplifies workflow conclusion - **Modernized design** that enhances performance and user satisfaction

These enhancements are designed to be intuitive and do not require extensive setup beyond initial access.

Best Practices and Tips[edit | edit source]

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

- Regularly review the minimap to keep track of complex workflows effectively. - Use the Zoom controls to focus on sections of your automation when making detailed adjustments. - Take advantage of the Fit to Screen option to quickly understand the overall layout before starting modifications. - Utilize the option to Download automation as PNG for team discussions or reviews to gain feedback on workflows. - Familiarize yourself with the improved usability of the Go To actions to enhance workflow logic and user experience. - Make use of the automatic functionalities to minimize manual edits and errors, particularly concerning end points in automations.

Troubleshooting[edit | edit source]

While most users will experience seamless integration with the Automation Canvas Enhancements, should you encounter any issues, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

- Ensure that your browser is updated and compatible with ActiveCampaign. - If loading times are longer than expected, try refreshing the page or clearing your browser cache. - For any persistent usability issues, consult ActiveCampaign's support resources or reach out to customer support for further assistance.

FAQ[edit | edit source]

What changes were made to the automation canvas?[edit | edit source]

The enhancements include a navigation minimap, zoom controls, a fit to screen feature, PNG downloading, improved usability for Go To actions, an automatic end automation indicator, and a new sleek design.

Is there an additional cost for using these enhancements?[edit | edit source]

No, these enhancements are available for all users across all subscription plans without any additional cost.

How can I download my automation canvas?[edit | edit source]

You can download your automation by selecting the download option that saves your workflow as a PNG file.

Are there any new functionalities for directing flows in automations?[edit | edit source]

Yes, the usability for Go To actions has been enhanced, making it more intuitive to redirect the flow of automations.

What if I forget to add an end action to my automation?[edit | edit source]

The new automatic end automation indicator will save you from this, as it will be added automatically if there are no further actions.

How can I fit my entire automation on the screen?[edit | edit source]

Utilize the Fit to Screen option to automatically adjust the canvas so that your entire automation workflow appears within your view.

Where can I find more information about these features?[edit | edit source]

For a deeper dive, refer to the additional resources provided, including setting new standards for marketing automation in 2024 and how to view your automation.

Additional Resources[edit | edit source]

For more information on automation enhancements, please refer to the following:

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