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Communications in VZ Overview 

This article provides a high-level overview of how communications work in VisualZen (VZ). It explains how message content is created, how configurations control when and how those messages are sent, and what admins can manage directly.

For detailed setup instructions, see the linked articles on
Creating Email Content
Creating SMS Content
Creating Email Templates
Communication Configurations

✉️ Email and SMS Content (Contents Tab)

All communication content records are created and managed in the Contents tab of the Control Panel.

  • Email Subjects and Bodies:
    • Subject = plain text (email subject line)
    • Body = HTML-supported content (branding, links, images)
    • Created by VZ for naming consistency; populated/edited by admins
  • Email Templates:
    • Provide branding consistency (headers/footers)
    • %BODY% variable defines where the Body content is inserted
  • SMS Messages:
    • Short plain text messages (≤100 characters)
    • Created by admins
    • Must be applied in a configuration to send
    • Only deliver to students who have opted in (verify using the Opt-In SMS report)

🔗 Learn more: [Creating Email Content] | [Creating Email Templates] | [Creating SMS Content]

⚙️ Communication Configurations (Configurations Tab)

Communication Configurations are managed in the Communication Configurations tab of the Control Panel. These define when, how, and to whom messages are sent by linking content records together.

Key elements include:

  • Communication Type – Defines the trigger (e.g., Reservation Confirmation, Reminder, Payment Notification). See [Communication Configuration Types].
  • Filters – Narrow recipients by event, student type, or entity type (students/guests).
  • Active Period – Date range when the configuration is active.
  • Delivery Method – Choose either Email or SMS (create two separate configs if using both).
  • Naming – Use clear, descriptive titles for easy identification (e.g., “Event Reminder – Freshman – 3 Day – Email”).

🔗 Learn more: [Creating Communication Configurations] | [Communication Configuration Types]

✅ Best Practices

  • Match configuration titles with the communication type
  • Use descriptive, unique names for content records
  • Test with a test account before launch
  • Review start/end dates and frequencies regularly
  • Remember: editing a shared record updates all configurations using it

🆘 Need Help?

Contact support@visualzen.com if you:

  • Need a new Subject or Body record
  • Aren’t sure which communication type to use
  • Need assistance troubleshooting message delivery

Please include the configuration name, audience, send timing, and a short description of your goal.