When initiating a conversation with a customer, WhatsApp requires you to use a pre-approved Message Template - previously referred to as a Highly Structured Message or HSM. You can submit Message Templates via the WhatsApp Template Manager on the MessageBird Dashboard.

What do I need to create a Message Template?

• a name: The name of the Message Template has to be formatted in small letters only, and spaces need to be replaced with an underscore.
• a body
• variable(s)/placeholder(s): The Message Template uses numbered placeholders '{{x}}' for each variable in the message. Each variable can be replaced with text that contains letters, digits, special characters, or spaces.

When submitting the Message Template, you should keep in mind that it needs to contain the full body of the message, with the option to add unique parameters represented as placeholders. Please keep in mind at least one parameter is required.

How does it look like?

Message Template should be submitted as follows:

Name: account_registration

Hi {{1}}! Thanks for starting your personal training plan. We’ll send you a {{2}} update with your new schedule. You can log-in online using your training ID {{3}}. Stay fit!

Your customer will receive:

Hi Joey! Thanks for starting your personal training plan. We’ll send you a weekly update with your new schedule. You can log-in online using your training ID 123456. Stay fit!

How to submit a Message Template?

Only if you have WhatsApp access, you can submit a Message Template from your Dashboard via the WhatsApp Template Manager. If you do not have the WhatsApp access yet, sign up to get started.

1. Head to the WhatsApp Template Manager in the WhatsApp Section on the left side of your Message Dashboard.
2. Click on Create template, a pop up will open.
3. Fill out all the information
   • Name: in small letters only and spaces need to be replaced with an underscore
   • Category: should describe the purpose of the message
   • Language: the language of the template
   • Content: is the full body of the message, with the option to add unique parameters represented as placeholders.
     • Make sure to include at least one variable, like {{1}}
4. Double-check all the information and, once you're ready, click on Submit for approval.

Keep in mind that once submitted for approval, a message template cannot be edited.