WhatsApp API Send Message

In today's world of digital marketing every business needs efficient and reliable communication with their customers. The Whatsapp Business API is the latest powerful tool that enables businesses to send messages directly through Whatsapp. Its purpose is to solve the need of large businesses who provide customer support and deliver notifications to their users.

How to Apply for WhatsApp Business API Access

Getting access to the WhatsApp Business API is your first necessary step. To do this, you need to apply through a recognized Business Solution Provider (BSP), like Wabridge. Here’s a quick run-through:

• Choose a BSP: Select a trusted provider from the Wabridge, considering their expertise, support, and additional services.
  
  
  
  
• Submission of Business Details: Submit your business details to the BSP, which will then forward your application to WhatsApp.
  
  
• Approval Wait Time: It takes 24 hrs time so keep an eye on your inbox for the green light from WhatsApp. 
  
  

Setting Up a Facebook Business Manager Account

Integration with Facebook is a must for the WhatsApp Business API setup. If you don’t have a Facebook Business Manager account yet, let’s get you sorted:

• Create the Account: Visit Facebook Business Manager and create an account by following the points mentioned there.
  
  
• Business Details: Enter your business details. Transparency and accuracy here are as important which are considered best.
  
  
• Add Your Assets: Your facebook business page and ad accounts to access control and management.

Verifying Your Business on Facebook

Now, let’s walk through the following steps of business verification on facebook – a crucial step that adds legitimacy to your operations:

• Ready your documents: Collect official documents that show your business’s name and address. Utility bill, bank statement, or business license could be required. 
  
  
• Start Verification: In your Business Manager, Go to ‘Security Center’ and click on ‘Start Verification’.
  
  
• Enter Details: Enter your business information as they appear on your official documents.
  
  
• Submit Documentation: Upload the documents successfully and submit them for review.
  
  

It will take a few days, but once verified, you'll receive a badge of authenticity that assures customers you're legit.

Setting up WhatsApp Business API smoothly begins with these foundational aspects. Our guide will take you through the nuances of this powerful tool, and by the end, you'll have a setup that's as robust as Wabridge's support. Follow Wabridge insights for more in-depth tips and tricks to master WhatsApp Business API.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Message Template

1. Template Section: Go to the Template Section by selecting "Create a Template" or "Manage Templates."
   

Create a template:

• Then click "Create a Template."
• For inspiration or examples, browse existing templates.
  
  
  

Choose the category of the message template:

• You will see three options: Marketing, Utility, and Authentication.
• Marketing: Select promotional messages.
• Utility: Select informative or service messages.
• Authentication: Select the option to send a verification code.
  
  
  

Choose a Subcategory:

1. • If you choose Marketing, select from:
     • Custom
     • Flows
     • Product Messages
     • Other Details Messages
       
       
   • If you choose Utility, select from:
     • Custom
     • Flows
     • Order Details Messages
     • Order Status Messages
   • Authentication is specifically for verification codes.
     
     
2. Select the Name of the Message Template:
   • Enter a name such as welcome_to_shree_ram_industry.
3. Select Language:
   • Choose the language, for example, "United States English."
4. Click on Continue:
   • Proceed to the template editing section.

Edit the Template

1. Header:
• Choose the header type:
• Text
• Media (Image, Video, Document)
• Location
2. Text Body:
• Write the main content of the message.
• You can add variables to personalize the message (e.g., {{customer_name}}).
3. Footer:
• Add a footer for sign-off, such as "Regards, Hence Digital Telematics."
4. Buttons:
• Add interactive buttons:
• Select a call to action, such as "Call Now" or "Visit Now."
5. Submit the Message:
• Review your template and click "Submit."

Approving the Template from Meta

1. Submit for Approval:
• Once you submit the message template, it will be sent to Meta for review.
• Meta checks the template to ensure it complies with their policies.
2. Meta's Review Process:
• Meta reviews the template for content appropriateness and format.
• They may check for policy violations, such as spam or misleading information.
3. Approval Notification:
• If approved, you will receive a notification, and the template will be ready for use.
• If rejected, Meta will provide feedback on why it was not approved. You can edit the template based on the feedback and resubmit.

How to Send a Message Using WhatsApp API

Sending a message via the WhatsApp API involves several steps. The first step is to register with WhatsApp Business and obtain the API credentials. You can use the API to send text messages, images, documents, and even interactive messages once you have completed the setup process. Integration with existing systems is easy thanks to the API's RESTful endpoints. 

Here's a simple example of sending a text message using the Wabridge (WhatsApp API)

Step 1: Login wabridge.com 

Step 2: Click on message in the left side of the panel

Step 3: Then click send message and then select a device and template type 

Step 4: Enter whatsapp numbers to whom you send messages

Step 5: There is a schedule option to schedule messages

Step 6: And then last click on send message button to send messages

WhatsApp Official API

WhatsApp's Official API helps businesses manage customer interactions through a robust solution. WhatsApp's Official API offers advanced features such as automated message sending, message templates, and detailed analytics that are not available in the standard WhatsApp application. Businesses that require integration with CRM systems or other enterprise applications and need to handle high volumes of messages will benefit from this API.

Benefits of Using WhatsApp Official API

• Scalability: Handle thousands of messages daily without any issues.
  
  
• Security: Messages are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring customer privacy.
  
  
• Automation: Use bots to handle common customer queries and free up human agents for more complex tasks.
  
  
• Analytics: Gain insights into customer interactions to improve service quality.

WhatsApp Dashboard

To effectively manage your WhatsApp Business API, you can use the WhatsApp Dashboard. This tool provides a user-friendly interface where you can monitor message delivery, track engagement metrics, and manage your account settings.

Key Features of the WhatsApp Dashboard

• Message Tracking: See real-time updates on message status, including delivered, read, and failed messages.
  
  
• User Management: Manage multiple users and their roles within your organization.
  
  
• Template Management: Create, edit, and approve message templates for various customer interactions.
  
  
• Reports and Analytics: Generate detailed reports on message performance and user engagement.
  
  
• My devices: Check available devices status with device id, phone number and name.
  
  

WhatsApp Business API Documentation

Getting started with the WhatsApp Business API requires understanding its various features and capabilities. The official WhatsApp Business API documentation is a comprehensive resource that covers everything from initial setup to advanced usage.

What You’ll Find in the Documentation

• API Endpoints: Detailed descriptions of all available API endpoints and their parameters.
  
  
• Authentication: Instructions on how to authenticate your requests using API keys or tokens.
  
  
• Message Types: Information on different message formats, including text, media, and interactive messages.
  
  
• Error Handling: Guidance on how to troubleshoot common issues and interpret error codes.

WhatsApp Business API Access

To use the WhatsApp Business API, businesses must apply for access through WhatsApp's official channels. This process involves several steps to ensure that your business meets WhatsApp's requirements and complies with their policies.

Steps to Gain Access

1. Apply for Access: Submit an application through the WhatsApp Business API page, providing details about your business and use case.
   
   
2. Verification: WhatsApp will review your application and may request additional information or documentation.
   
   
3. Setup: Once approved, you'll receive access to the API and can start the setup process, which includes configuring your server and setting up webhooks.
   
   
4. Go Live: After completing the setup, you can begin using the API to communicate with your customers.

Conclusion

The WhatsApp Business API is a powerful tool for businesses looking to enhance their customer communication strategies. With features like automated messaging, detailed analytics, and robust security, the API offers everything you need to provide exceptional customer service. By understanding the setup process, exploring the documentation, and utilizing the WhatsApp Dashboard, you can make the most of this innovative communication platform.