Trigger messaging flow

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WhatsApp Messaging Flows - “Trigger Messaging Flow” Step

Introduction

The Trigger messaging flow step is a crucial feature within ActiveCampaign’s WhatsApp Messaging tools. It allows users to seamlessly transfer contacts from their current flow to another designated flow. This step is particularly beneficial for managing complex communication strategies by breaking down larger flows into smaller, more manageable segments. Understanding how to effectively utilize this feature enhances your ability to engage with contacts, ensuring they receive timely and relevant messaging.

How to Access This Feature

To access the Trigger messaging flow step, navigate to the WhatsApp Messaging section within your ActiveCampaign dashboard. Begin by selecting the Messaging Flows option in the left-hand menu. From here, you can either edit an existing flow or create a new one.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Open the Messaging Flows:** Click on WhatsApp in the left menu, then select Messaging Flows.

2. **Choose Your Flow:**

  - To edit an existing flow, click on the desired flow, then select Update followed by Steps.
  - For a new flow, proceed to create it in the Flow builder directly.

3. **Add the Trigger Step:**

  - Locate a node (+) in the flow builder where you wish to introduce the action. A modal window will pop up.
  - Click on the Trigger messaging flow option, and then hit the Add button.

4. **Configure the Trigger Flow:**

  - In the Trigger a messaging flow modal that appears, click the pencil icon to assign a unique name to this step. It is advised to use names that are both short and clearly descriptive.
  - From the dropdown menu, select the target flow to which contacts should be transferred.
  - Finally, click the Jump to this step button to complete the action.

Once you have added this step, any contacts progressing through the current flow will be directed to the selected flow when they hit the corresponding step.

Configuration Options and Settings

When configuring the Trigger messaging flow step, keep the following options in mind:

- Flow Name: It is recommended to give your steps unique names that clearly reflect their function within the messaging strategy. - Target Flow: This is the designated flow where contacts will be transitioned to after hitting the trigger step.

• • Important Reminder:** Ensure that you have created the destination or target flow before adding this step to your WhatsApp Messaging workflow. It is also essential to note that any variables from the starting flow will not be accessible in the destination flow. To manage variables effectively, consider using the Contact Update step to save necessary data.

Best Practices and Tips

- **Naming Convention:** Adopt a consistent naming convention for your flow steps. This will help in easily identifying and managing steps as your messaging strategies evolve. - **Testing Your Flows:** Before deploying a flow with the Trigger messaging flow step, run tests to ensure that contacts are transitioning smoothly between flows and receiving the correct messages. - **Utilize Sub-Flows:** Consider breaking down larger flows into smaller, reusable components. This not only makes your messaging more organized but also allows for greater flexibility in managing contact journeys.

Common Use Cases with Examples

- **Enhanced Engagement:** For example, if a contact begins in an initial onboarding flow but qualifies for a promotional offer, you can use the Trigger messaging flow step to transition them to a targeted promotional flow that provides further incentive. - **Behavioral Segmentation:** If a user exhibits certain behaviors, such as clicking links or engaging with content, you can trigger them into a specialized flow that offers more tailored messaging based on their interactions.

Troubleshooting

- **Flow Not Triggering:** If contacts are not being moved to the designated target flow, double-check to ensure that the target flow exists and is correctly linked in the settings. - **Variable Data Missing:** Should you find that variable data is missing in the target flow, verify that the necessary variables were saved correctly prior to triggering the flow. Utilize the Contact Update step as needed for proper data management.

FAQ

Q1: What happens to the current flow when a contact is transferred? A1: The old flow is marked as Complete while the new flow is marked as Running.

Q2: Can I use the same name for multiple Trigger messaging flow steps? A2: It is recommended to use unique names for better organization and management of flows.

Q3: Do contacts receive a notification when they are moved to a new flow? A3: Contacts will not receive a notification specifically for being transferred; they will simply start receiving messages from the new flow.

Q4: Is it possible to trigger a flow based on specific actions taken by contacts? A4: Yes, you can set conditions based on user actions, which can then lead to the Trigger messaging flow step.

Q5: Are there any limitations on how many messages can be sent through a flow? A5: ActiveCampaign’s standard messaging limits apply, and you should review your plan details for specifics.

Q6: Can any flow be set as a target flow for the Trigger messaging flow step? A6: Yes, as long as the target flow has been created prior to linking it in the Trigger messaging flow step.

Q7: How can I check if my flows are operating correctly? A7: Regularly monitor your flows through ActiveCampaign’s reporting tools and conduct tests to ensure that they are functioning as intended.

For additional resources on managing your WhatsApp Messaging Flows, refer back to the WhatsApp Messaging and Flows documentation. ```