Implementing WhatsApp in Odoo 17 is a game changer, especially at a time when communication forms the backbone of every business operation. With this integration, users gain access to a seamless communication experience without having to leave the Odoo environment. Let's take a detailed look at the crucial aspects of this integration:
WhatsApp templates
An important feature is the ability to create a WhatsApp template for each document. This allows users to communicate via WhatsApp directly from the Odoo system. The process is fairly simple:
- Create a template for the relevant document.
- Select a model to which this applies.
- If a document (PDF) needs to be attached, select the report ID.
- For dynamic values, you can use a username, user mobile number, free text, or a field from a model.
- Send it for approval or, if it has already been created in WhatsApp, use WhatsApp's synchronization option.
- If a message is sent from the list view, it is sent by a scheduled action.
WhatsApp Phone configuration
A new model has been added where all configuration details are entered. Companies that are allowed can also be added, and users are notified to send notifications. One notable feature is the ability to synchronize WhatsApp templates in a single click.
Message reception
Depending on previous communication, new mail channels are created for incoming messages. There is support for various media, including text, documents, images, audio, video, and location.
Reply to Messages
At the moment, only the received reply is supported.
Sending Messages
WhatsApp only allows messages to be sent if a message from the user has been received in the past 24 hours. This helps manage communication and prevents spam.
Blacklist
The blacklist feature has two aspects:
- By WhatsApp user: A new model has been created to manage the blacklist. If a user sends texts such as "STOP", "UNSUBSCRIBE", or "STOP PROMOTIONS", they are blacklisted until the user sends another message or someone manually makes changes to the Blacklist.
- By Odoo user: Here, mobile numbers can be manually added to or removed from a list. If a number has been added, all messages from that user are ignored. This is useful if someone sends too many messages or frequently sends large files.
Events and Point of Sale (POS)
In event configuration, a WhatsApp template can be configured. In the POS system, users can use a text box on the receipt screen to send receipts via WhatsApp. Users activate this from the POS configuration and select a template for the POS receipt and invoice.
This extensive integration of WhatsApp within Odoo 17 helps improve communication channels for businesses. It not only makes communication more efficient, but also offers a more personalized experience for both employees and customers. The ability to respond quickly to customer communication can go a long way toward building lasting relationships and improving customer satisfaction. It is clear that with these features, Odoo 17 takes business communication to the next level, helping companies operate in a more organized and effective way.
