Skip to main content

Workflow Action - Drip

The Drip Action in Stack workflows is a powerful tool designed to manage the flow of contacts by processing them in batches at specified intervals. This feature helps prevent system overload, ensures smooth automation execution, and optimizes resource use. Let's explore how to set up and make the most of the Drip Action for effective workflow management.

What is the Drip Workflow Action?​

The Drip Workflow Action allows you to control the pace at which contacts move through a workflow by processing them in batches at set intervals. This staggered approach ensures smooth automation and prevents system overload, making it ideal for handling high-volume workflows such as bulk email or SMS campaigns. By managing the delivery rate, you can maintain engagement and avoid resource bottlenecks.

Key Benefits of the Drip Workflow Action​

  • Controlled Execution: Processes contacts in manageable batches to prevent system overload.
  • Optimized Resource Management: Maintains API limits, email/SMS sending capacity, and server performance.
  • Improved Deliverability & Engagement: Spreads out communications to avoid spam filters and enhance response rates.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Customize batch size and intervals (minutes, hours, days) for precise automation control.

Configuring Drip Workflow Action​

Step 1: Access the Workflow Builder​

Log in to your Stack account, navigate to Automation > Workflows, and either create a new workflow or select an existing one to edit.

Step 2: Add the Drip Action​

Click the + icon to add a new action in your workflow. Search for Drip in the action list and select it.

Step 3: Naming the Action​

Provide a clear and descriptive name for your Drip action to easily identify it within the workflow builder.

Step 4: Setting the Batch Size​

Determine the batch size to control how many contacts move to the next step at a time. You can choose any number between 1 and 10,000, depending on your workflow needs. For example, setting a batch size of 100 means 100 contacts will proceed at each interval, maintaining a steady workflow execution.

Step 5: Configuring the Drip Interval​

Set the drip interval to decide how often each batch of contacts progresses to the next step. Choose from minutes (1–60), hours (1–24), or days (1–7) based on your timing needs. For instance, setting a 30-minute interval means a new batch of contacts progresses every 30 minutes, ensuring a controlled workflow execution.

Step 6: Save and Publish the Workflow​

Click Save to apply your Drip action settings. Ensure the workflow is configured correctly, then click Publish to activate the automation. Test the workflow by adding test contacts and verifying batch processing in the workflow history.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: How is the Drip action different from a normal delay or wait step?
A standard wait step holds all contacts at a specific point until the set time passes. In contrast, the Drip action releases contacts in batches, allowing a controlled flow instead of moving everyone forward at once.

Q: What happens if my batch size is too large?
If your batch size is too large, all contacts may move at once, potentially overloading communication channels (e.g., sending thousands of emails or SMS at once). It's best to select a manageable batch size based on your business needs and provider limits.

Q: Can I use the Drip action with emails, SMS, and other workflow actions?
Yes! The Drip action can be used with any workflow step, including emails, SMS, task assignments, and other automation actions, providing flexibility in pacing workflow execution.

Q: What happens if new contacts enter the workflow while the Drip action is running?
New contacts will start from the beginning of the workflow and follow the same batch processing rules set in the Drip action. They will not join an already running batch but will follow their own drip schedule based on the configured settings.

Q: Can I change the batch size or drip interval after the workflow is published?
Yes, you can update the batch size and drip interval at any time. However, changes will only apply to contacts that enter the Drip action after the update. Contacts already in progress will continue following the previous settings.