Meta has an interactive message type called Lists on WhatsApp, which is an improved version of the dropdown feature. This feature allows chatbots to send messages with a list of options that users can select from, making it easier for users to interact with the chatbot and get the information they need.
The list picker is an extension of the dropdown input type that is already available in the bot builder. Learn more. The list picker is designed to make it easier for chatbots to present users with a range of options and allow them to select one or more options with a single tap. This can be particularly useful for chatbots that need to collect information from users, such as a preference or a selection.
For example, a chatbot for a pizza delivery service could use the List message type to present users with a list of available pizza toppings and allow them to select the toppings they want on their pizza. The user can simply tap on the toppings they want, and the chatbot will receive the selection and proceed with the order.
Creating WhatsApp lists in the bot builder
- Create a new bot and map it to the WhatsApp channel — or create a new draft version of the bot for which you are looking to include lists as an input option. You can also use lists in bots built for all channels
- In the Knowledge Sources for your bot pop-up that appears, choose the Portal and Category that you want the bot to learn from. This is an optional step as you can toggle off Learn from FAQs and proceed to create the bot. You can enable this later if required by going to Natural Language > Configure > Natural language settings > Enable Learn from your FAQs
- Create a new dialog and select List as the input type
Creating WhatsApp lists in the bot builder
Here are some of the elements you will need to configure in the bot builder for WhatsApp lists
| Element | Bot builder | |
|---|---|---|
List header The name of the list (20 characters) |  |  |
List footer A description of the list (60 characters) |  |  |
Row title Each row corresponds to one of the listed items (24 characters) Row description The description for each listed item (72 characters) |  |  |
Here's how a complete list will look like |  |   |
Previewing WhatsApp lists
- Using preview configuration will allow you to check out how the bot functions with these lists. However, if you use the preview feature within the bot builder, or try it out on the widget, the list will render as a dropdown.
- Previewing the list as a dropdown will strip away the row descriptions.
Here are some tips for using WhatsApp Lists effectively:
- Keep your lists short: Try to limit your lists to 4-6 options. This will make it easier for users to quickly scan and select the option they want.
- Use clear and concise labeling: Use clear and concise labels for each option in your list. This will help users quickly understand what each option represents.
- Use emoji: Consider using icons or images to make your list more visually appealing and help users understand the options more quickly.
- Provide clear instructions: Make sure to provide clear instructions for how users can select options from your list. For example, you might say "Tap on the toppings you want" or "Select the size of your pizza."
- Test your lists: Before launching your chatbot, make sure to test your lists with a small group of users to ensure that they're easy to use and understand.
By following these tips, you can make the most of WhatsApp Lists and make it easier for users to interact with your chatbot.