Create inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging

```mediawiki Navigation: Main_Page > WhatsApp > Inbox Actions > Create inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging

Introduction

Creating inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging allows users to automate tasks directly from their WhatsApp inbox within ActiveCampaign. This feature is crucial as it facilitates integration with external platforms such as Zapier, Zendesk, and Shopify, streamlining workflows and enhancing customer interaction. By enabling automated flows for contacts, teams can efficiently manage support requests, track tickets, and maintain effective communication without switching tools.

How to Access

To access the feature for creating inbox actions in WhatsApp Messaging, follow these straightforward steps: 1. Log in to your ActiveCampaign account. 2. Navigate to **WhatsApp** in the left menu. 3. Click on **Settings**. 4. Select the **Inbox actions** option to view and manage your current actions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create an inbox action in your WhatsApp Messaging setup:

1. **Navigate to WhatsApp Inbox Actions**:

  - Go to **WhatsApp** > **Settings** on the left menu.
  - Click on the **Inbox actions** option.

2. **Initiate a New Inbox Action**:

  - Click the **+ New inbox action** button.

3. **Fill Out Action Information**:

  - **Name of the action**: Enter a concise and descriptive name (e.g., “Create a ticket in Zendesk”). This name is for internal use only.
  - **Action type**: Select one of the following:
    - **HTTP Request**: This option sends data to external platforms through API calls. Use this to create support tickets in platforms like Zendesk.
    - **Trigger Flow**: This option will activate a specified automated flow for the currently selected contact. Choose the flow from the list you have created.

  - **Button label**: Provide the text that will be displayed on the button users will click on (e.g., “Create a ticket for Support”).

4. **Configure Action Details**:

  - Click the **Action details** button to continue the setup:
    - **If using "HTTP Request"**:
      - Select the **Method type**.
      - Enter a valid URL, and note that variables can be added for dynamic requests.
      - Click on **Body** and choose the type of request body.
      - Add headers by selecting **Headers** > **Add Header**.
      - For query parameters, select **Query** > **Add a query param**.
      - Use the **Test Request** button to test the HTTP request to ensure it works as intended.
      - Once satisfied, click the **Submit** button.

    - **If using "Trigger flow"**:
      - Select the existing flow that will execute upon clicking the button.
      - When complete, click the **Submit** button to save the action.

Configuration Options and Settings

When creating an inbox action, several important configuration options enable you to tailor the functionality to your needs:

- **Action Type**: Select between **HTTP Request** or **Trigger Flow** based on the action's purpose. - **Method Type**: When selecting **HTTP Request**, determine the **Method type** (GET, POST, etc.) needed for your API call. - **Button Label**: Customize the clickable text on the button to ensure it is clear for users. - **Request Body**: Define the content format (e.g., JSON, XML) needed for the action if you are sending data to an external system.

Best Practices

When creating inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging, consider the following best practices:

- Ensure the **name of the action** is descriptive enough for easy identification by team members. - Regularly review and update the actions based on user feedback and changes in operational needs. - Test any **HTTP Requests** to confirm they are functioning correctly before deploying them to a live environment. - Clearly label buttons to enhance user experience and reduce confusion about their functionality.

Common Use Cases

Creating inbox actions can benefit various business scenarios, such as:

- **Support Ticket Creation**: Automatically generate support tickets in systems like Zendesk when a customer messages you in WhatsApp. For instance, set up an action to create tickets when a customer expresses an issue. - **Customer Transaction Tracking**: Use actions to trigger flows that send customers updates about their orders or transactions based on WhatsApp interactions. - **Lead Management**: Automatically add leads to your CRM when they interact via WhatsApp, creating a seamless transition from conversation to action.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while creating inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

- Verify that all URLs used in **HTTP Requests** are valid and reachable. - Ensure that you have the necessary permissions enabled for the API integrations you are attempting to use. - Check if the flows you are trying to trigger are published and active. - Review any error messages displayed during the test phase to identify configuration issues.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the creation of inbox actions for WhatsApp Messaging:

What is an inbox action?

An inbox action allows you to automate tasks directly from your WhatsApp inbox in ActiveCampaign, enhancing interaction capabilities with external platforms.

How do I create an inbox action?

You can create an inbox action by navigating to **WhatsApp > Settings > Inbox actions** and following the setup steps outlined above.

Can I create multiple inbox actions?

Yes, you can create multiple inbox actions to handle different tasks and interactions from within your WhatsApp inbox.

Is this feature available on all ActiveCampaign plans?

No, the WhatsApp Messaging feature needs to be purchased and is available as part of the Plus, Professional, or Enterprise plans.

What types of actions can I trigger?

You can configure actions to either send **HTTP Requests** or trigger specific automated flows based on customer interactions.

How can I test my inbox actions before going live?

You can use the **Test Request** button while configuring **HTTP Requests** to ensure that the action behaves as expected before finalizing it.

What should I do if my inbox action does not work?

If an inbox action does not work, check that all settings are configured correctly, validate your URLs, and ensure any necessary integrations are properly set up.

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