Understanding Message Templates and How to Use Them
Understanding the message templates and how to use them can be quite confusing, hence why we have compiled this support article to assist you in understanding them and using them properly.
What Are Message Templates?
Message templates are predefined formats for your messages that can be customized with specific details relevant to your guests. They help you automate your communication process, saving time and ensuring consistency.
They can be accessed via your Unified Inbox - Message Templates field. 
What Are Merge Fields?
Merge fields are placeholders within your message templates that get automatically populated with specific information from your RW account. We currently have 194 merge fields and more upcoming ready for you to integrate and use to streamline your automated processes. These merge fields allow you to easily manage your already populated fields, providing valuable information for your guests. This information can range from booking details, payment details, geolocation and more.
A good example of Merge Fields usage for a Booking confirmation payment reminder:
Hi {{ record.main_guest.first_name }},
Thanks for your request to book {{ record.property.name[locale] }}.
Your booking is not confirmed until such time that your deposit payment has been received.
Click the button below to secure your booking.
Pay now: {{record.payment_link}}
Booking Details:
Guest: {{ record.main_guest.full_name }}
Property: {{ record.property.name[locale] }}
Booking ID: #{{ record.id }}
Check In: {{ date_format(record.checkin, 'M jS, Y') }}
Check Out: {{ date_format(record.checkout, 'M jS, Y') }}
Adults: {{ record.adults }}
Children: {{ record.children }}
Message templates will be able to be selected once created within the Unified Inbox:
Before you start creating your first message template, here are some important aspects ensure you get the most out of the process:
1. Default Pre-made Templates
Booking Confirmation & Guest Agreement Reminder: Confirms the booking and reminds guests about the agreement terms.
Next Payment Reminders: Reminds guests about upcoming payments.
Security Deposit Reminder: Reminds guests to make the security deposit.
Booking Confirmation Payment Reminder: Confirms the booking and reminds guests about the payment details.
These templates are designed to get you started quickly and cover essential communication needs.
2. Accessing and Using Merge Fields
The merge fields you can use to create your templates are always available in a menu. You can easily search for and select the specific merge fields you need to integrate and compile your messages. This makes it simple to customize your templates with relevant information.
3. Integration with Automated Workflows
Message templates work hand in hand with Automated Workflows.(Detailed guide about Automations HERE) When creating your templates, keep in mind that you can automate these messages to be sent to:
Main Guests: Ensure guests receive timely and accurate information.
Property Homeowners: Keep homeowners informed about bookings and payments. (more about Homeowners HERE)
Partner Accounts: Communicate with partners seamlessly. (more about Partners HERE)
Internal Users: Ensure your team is updated on important information. ( detailed users guide HERE)
By considering automated workflows, you can streamline your communication process, making it efficient and effective.