Custom variables in Aimfox message templates are a powerful way to personalize communications during campaigns. However, errors in these variables can disrupt message delivery or cause unintended behavior. This guide explains how to handle and troubleshoot these issues effectively.
Ensure all custom variables are correctly configured and tested before launching a campaign.
Understanding Common Errors with Custom Variables
Variable Errors and Their Impacts
Rendering Errors: If a custom variable has an issue, such as missing or incorrect data, it may fail to render in the message. In such cases: - The message dependent on the variable will not be sent unless corrected. - During preview, the problematic variable will not display correctly, and you might encounter an error page.
Data Absence: Errors also occur if values for custom variables are missing for specific recipients. Messages relying on these variables may malfunction or remain unsent.
How to Troubleshoot Custom Variable Errors
Follow these steps to identify and fix issues with custom variables in your templates:
If some custom variables in a template work while others do not, this section will help you identify and resolve the issues.
1. Identify Problematic Variables
Review the message preview area to check for errors associated with specific variables. Variables that fail to display in the preview often indicate an issue.
2. Verify Custom Variable Names
Double-check that the custom variable names (e.g.,
{{CUSTOM_1}}) in your template exactly match the names specified in your uploaded data file (e.g.,CSVorExcelfile). Mistyped or mismatched names are common sources of errors.
3. Ensure Data is Present
Confirm that there are valid values for each variable for all intended recipients. Missing data can cause the system to flag an error when generating individual messages.
4. Test with Direct Content
Temporarily remove the problematic custom variable from the template and replace it with plain text or direct content. This will help determine whether the issue stems from the variable itself or something else in the template.
Understanding Template Updates in Campaigns
When you update a template in Aimfox, the changes apply only to leads that have not progressed past the initial stage of the campaign. Specifically:
Leads in the "Initialized" phase will receive the updated sequence.
Leads that have already entered the "Sending Connection" phase will continue receiving the previous messages, as those have already been processed.
This behavior ensures that campaigns maintain consistency for leads already in progress while allowing updates for new leads.
Related FAQs
What happens to a message if there’s an error in a custom variable? Messages relying on erroneous custom variables will not be sent. In preview, the variable will not render, and an error page may appear.
How can I ensure my custom variables work correctly? Always verify that the variable names in your template match the uploaded data file exactly. Ensure there are valid values for all recipients. Replace problematic variables temporarily with plain text to isolate the issue.
What happens to leads already in progress when I update a template? Leads in the "Initialized" phase will receive the updated sequence, while those in the "Sending Connection" phase will continue with the previous messages.
By following the steps and preventive measures outlined above, Aimfox users can effectively handle and troubleshoot custom variable issues and understand how template updates propagate, ensuring smooth and error-free message delivery within campaigns.