To send messages from a WhatsApp business account, Meta requires that you use pre-approved WhatsApp templates. These templates are required by Meta for a few reasons: 

  • to ensure messages comply with WhatsApp policies 
  • to prevent spam messages
  • to facilitate bulk messaging 
  • to send consistent messages


Templates can contain variable content fields, so you can reuse a template with the same basic structure but change the variable copy when you create your campaign in Movement. 

There are four different template types to choose from: 

  • Text: A simple text template, which can include copy and links
  • Call to action: This template includes a single button that recipients can tap to take a specific action
  • Quick reply: This template can include up to ten button options - this is what you need to kick start surveys
  • Media: The same as a text template but with media included - either an image, video or audio file


These are explained in more detail in the table below, followed by examples of each template type. When you're ready to create templates, use our guide on how to create and use WhatsApp templates here. 


Template types Movement currently supports:

Template type What to submit Example
Text
A simple text template, which can include copy and links. This is the most flexible option and can be used when you have more than one link to include. 
  • Template copy with example content for each variable

 Hi 1 - Can you help us 2?

Please send any videos or pictures of 3 so that 4.
1 Nat
2 bring our event to life 😀
3 the event 
4 we can celebrate it
Call to action
This template includes a button that recipients can tap to take a specific action on any website, including Movement, such as sign a petition or share a social post.
  • Template copy with example content for each variable
  • Button copy (no variables)
  • URL for your action page or website
Tip: You can include a variable at the end of your link, so you can reuse the template across campaigns, for example: https://www.yourmovement.org/1  		1 BREAKING: Urgent update: 2
Take action now to 3 and forward to a friend
1 ‼️
2 Have you heard the latest news?
3 demand an end to this
Quick reply
This allows recipients to select from up to 10 pre-filled answers rather than type an open response. This is the best format for surveys and can be used to increase reply rates in peer to peer campaigns.
Meta sets some limitations for quick response survey templates:
  • Maximum of 10 options for the quick reply 
  • Max character limit of 25 for each reply option
  • Variables are allowed and count as 1 character
  • Template copy with example content for each variable including pre-filled answer options

 Hi 1, would you like to take part in our annual survey?
Pre-filled answer options:
Yes please
Not right now
Can I have some more info
1 Nat
Media 
Media templates allow for images, videos and sound files (voice notes) from your local server to be included in your WhatsApp messages. 
  • Template copy with example content for each variable
  • URL for your media (image, video or voice note recording) hosted in an online media library


Note: For full instructions on sending media via WhatsApp, including the specific template requirements, see Sending media with WhatsApp.


 Finally, 1 Nat’s on the frontline of using tech to amplify worker voices and drive systemic change. She’ll 2
 1 Nat Whalley - Co-founder of Movement and digital campaigner.
2 share her work empowering millions with the tools to organise and create lasting change.
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