Auto-replies and out-of-office messages are important for staying connected with customers, even when your team is unavailable. They ensure prompt responses to inquiries whether you need to handle frequent queries or let customers know your business hours.
If you are a WATI user, then here’s a comprehensive guide on how to automate replies in WATI to keep communication seamless, even outside working hours:
Step 1: Set Your Office Hours
Open the Automation menu from the dashboard and navigate to Default Action. Then, click on the Set Working Hours button.
Select your working days and adjust the working hours as needed.
Click the Save button to confirm your office hours.
Step 2: Set an Out-of-Office (OOO) Message
From the Automation menu from the dashboard navigate to Reply Material.
Click the Add Text button to create a new reply.
Enter the Name and Content for your out-of-office message, then click Save.
4. Navigate back to Default Actions, enable the Non-Working Hours checkbox, and select the out-of-office reply material you just created.
But WATI has a lot of limitations:
WATI allows only 5 users per plan, which is difficult for larger teams.
Extra chatbot responses come with additional charges, increasing costs.
The plans are expensive and have high charges for messages.
WATI lacks advanced features like custom JavaScript workflows, unlike tools like Heltar, making it less flexible.
Choosing the right WhatsApp Business API provider is crucial for scaling your business. You can explore free trials of different BSPs to find what works best for you. To save some time and effort, here’s a comprehensive comparison of features, limitations, and pricing.
Feature Comparison: Wati vs. Heltar:
Feature | Wati | Heltar |
Broadcast Messaging | Supports campaigns with restrictions. | 1M+ messages in one click, risk-free. |
Chatbots | No code with OpenAI, Claude, or Gemini. | Drag-and-drop with OpenAI & Javascript. |
Shared Team Inbox | Limited to 5 users per plan. | Unlimited users, intuitive dashboard. |
Customer Support | Basic, extra chatbot responses cost more. | 24/7 support via call, WhatsApp, or email. |
Integrations | Limited, no Javascript support. | OpenAI & Javascript-ready integrations. |
Green Tick Badge | Not included. | Free with all plans. |
Pricing Transparency | High 20% conversation markup. | Transparent, competitive rates. |
Pricing Comparison: Wati vs. Heltar:
Plan | Wati (Monthly) | Heltar (Monthly) |
Starter | ₹2,499 | ₹999 |
CRM + Chatbot | ₹5,999 | ₹1,999 |
Enterprise | ₹16,999 | Custom |
Conversation Pricing: Wati vs. Heltar:
Conversation Type | Wati (Per 24 Hours) | Heltar (Per 24 Hours) |
Marketing | ₹0.90 | ₹0.76 |
Utility | ₹0.34 | ₹0.32 |
Service | ₹0.34 | ₹0.32 |
Heltar stands out as a cost-effective, feature-rich, and scalable solution for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It offers:
Affordable Pricing: Heltar’s plans are significantly cheaper than Wati’s, starting at just ₹999/month.
Unlimited Scalability: No cap on chatbot responses or users in any plan.
Advanced Integrations: OpenAI and Javascript compatibility for enhanced functionality.
Customer-Centric Features: 24/7 support and a free green tick badge for credibility.
High Volume Messaging: Send over 1,000,000 messages with just one click, ensuring efficiency without risks.
You can start a free trial to explore the features by yourself or book a free demo!
If you have any questions about migrating from one BSP to another, read this blog on All You Need to Know About WhatsApp Business API BSP Migration.
For more insights, tips, and strategies to make the most of your WhatsApp Business API, explore Heltar Blogs.
