Best Practices: Testing your Flows before Launching

While the simulator is a valuable tool for testing a flow during its construction, conducting a real-world test before launch remains irreplaceable.

Performing live tests using actual phone numbers or social media channels helps you prevent a range of common issues, including errors in message content, flaws in flow logic, undelivered messages, channel connectivity problems, and more. For this reason, we strongly advocate for thorough testing as a best practice prior to distributing flows to your contacts.

Connect your channel

Ensure you have authentic connections set up for your chosen channel type.

For instance, if you are using an SMS gateway or a local mobile operator, you should have connected phone numbers for each respective carrier. The example below illustrates an account that has successfully connected its local carrier—Orange, in this case.

Create a group of test contacts

Before deploying a flow to dozens or even thousands of contacts, compile a small test group. Proceed to the “Contacts” section, select the menu icon (☰), and then choose “New Group.”

To send your flow to this test group, use the ‘Select All’ option at the top of the list and then click the flow action button that appears:

Members of your test group should progress through the entire flow to identify any message content inaccuracies, such as typos or ambiguous language. You may also find it useful to review our guidelines on message content best practices.

As your contacts proceed through the flow, observe whether any messages or replies function differently than intended.

Examine your Results to conduct a deeper analysis of how your contacts are interacting with the flow:

By thoroughly testing your flows in a live environment, you can prevent straightforward errors, thereby conserving both time and resources. You might also want to consider A/B testing your flows before a full launch.