Create campaign templates

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Create Campaign Templates

Creating campaign templates in ActiveCampaign allows users to design and save email formats that can be reused for future campaigns. This feature is integral for maintaining consistency in email communication, enhancing brand recognition, and saving valuable time by eliminating redundant design work. Whether for direct marketing or automated email campaigns, templates streamline the creation process while ensuring that your brand’s messaging and style remains intact.

How to Access This Feature

To access the campaign template feature in your ActiveCampaign account:

1. Click on Campaigns in the left menu. 2. Select Campaign Templates from the dropdown options.

This will take you to the Manage Templates page where you can view, create, and edit your email templates.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create a Template with the Drag-and-Drop Template Designer

Follow these steps to create a new campaign template using the drag-and-drop template designer:

1. Click Campaigns in the left menu. 2. Click Campaign Templates. 3. Click the Create a Template button. 4. Choose a template to work from:

  * Select from themes on the left side.
  * Browse under the Layouts, Inspiration, or Past Campaigns tab.

5. If starting from scratch, click Start from scratch for a standard or custom HTML template. 6. Utilize the drag-and-drop functionality to add content blocks to your template layout:

  * Incorporate elements such as images, text, and call-to-action buttons.

7. Once you've finished designing your template, click the Save & exit button.

Your newly created template will appear on the All Custom Templates page with "(copy)" next to its name, ready for use in campaigns and automation emails.

Create a Template with Custom HTML

For users who prefer to work with HTML, follow these steps to create a template using custom HTML:

1. Click Campaigns in the left menu. 2. Click Campaign Templates. 3. Click the Create a Template button. 4. Click the Start From Scratch button. 5. When prompted, select the Custom HTML option from the modal window and then click Continue. 6. Compose your HTML in the code editor. Preview your template's appearance in the adjacent pane. 7. Click the New Template button at the top, then name your template. 8. After finishing, click the Save and exit button.

The new template will be visible at the top of the Manage Templates page, available for creating campaigns and automation emails.

Configuration Options and Settings

Each template possesses specific settings that can be tailored according to your needs. Access the settings by clicking on the desired template and then on the gear icon located in the top right corner. This will open the Settings modal where you can manage the following options:

1. Rename the template by clicking the Personalize icon. 2. Assign one or more categories to the template. 3. Toggle mobile responsiveness on or off (applicable with the Classic Designer). 4. Send a test email of the template to preview its functionality. 5. Preview the template's appearance across different email clients or on desktop. 6. Review your spam check score to ensure deliverability.

Best Practices and Tips

- **Consistency is Key**: Use templates across similar campaigns to ensure uniformity in your branding and messaging. - **Test Thoroughly**: Always send test emails to confirm that all elements are displayed as expected in various email clients. - **Utilize the AI Brand Kit**: Consider using the ActiveCampaign AI Brand Kit to import your website's colors, fonts, and logos for cohesive branding in your templates. - **Mobile Optimization**: Ensure your templates are responsive; preview them on mobile devices to keep your audience engaged regardless of their device. - **Regular Updates**: Periodically update your templates to reflect current offers and changes in branding or messaging to stay relevant.

Common Use Cases with Examples

1. **Newsletter Templates**: Create a template for your monthly newsletters that includes your logo, brand colors, and a section for the latest updates or promotions.

2. **Promotional Campaigns**: Design a promotional email template that can be used for various campaigns, allowing for quick edits to product offerings and call-to-action buttons.

3. **Event Invitations**: Use a standard template to design invitations for upcoming webinars or events, ensuring that all relevant details are easily accessible for recipients.

4. **Automated Follow-Ups**: Set up an automation email template for follow-ups after events or purchases, personalizing each message based on customer behavior.

Troubleshooting Section

- **Template Not Saving**: If you encounter issues while saving templates, ensure all mandatory fields are filled and check your internet connection. - **Display Issues in Email Clients**: If your template appears differently across email clients, consider double-checking the HTML coding, especially if using custom HTML.

If issues persist, consult the support team or refer to related help articles.

Related Features

For additional functionalities, explore the following topics: - Campaigns - Automation

FAQ Section

1. What are the different types of templates I can create?

You can create templates using the drag-and-drop interface or via custom HTML, depending on your familiarity with design.

2. Can I share my templates with other ActiveCampaign users?

Yes, you can share templates with other users; refer to the appropriate help documentation for detailed instructions.

3. How can I test my email template before sending?

You can send a test email from the template settings by clicking on the Send Test Email option.

4. What should I do if my template looks different in different email clients?

Make sure to preview the template and adjust your HTML code if necessary to maintain consistency across clients.

5. Are there any limitations to using templates?

Templates must be compatible with the designer they were created on; for example, templates designed in the Email Designer won't work in the Classic Designer.

6. How do I update an existing template?

You can edit any template by selecting it from the Manage Templates page and using the editing options provided.

7. Can I customize the mobile responsiveness of my template?

Yes, you can toggle mobile responsiveness settings in the template's configurations, but this is only available for templates made with the Classic Designer.

This article aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of creating and managing campaign templates in ActiveCampaign. For further assistance, consult the relevant support documentation or guidelines as you create your custom templates. ```