🆚 Node Reply vs Node Template
The Node Template is used to start a new conversation. It is a message validated by Meta (for example, a promotional offer or an order confirmation). It is the mandatory entry point for engaging a customer.
The Reply Node is used to continue a conversation already started with the customer, within 24 hours of their interaction.
In summary:
👉 The Node Template opens the door to discussion.
👉 The Node Reply allows the conversation to continue once the door has been opened.
✅ When should you use a Reply Node?
A Reply Node can only be used after a customer interaction:
If the customer clicked on a Quick Reply offered in your message.
If the customer sent an inbound message (for example, a question or keyword).
💡 After this initial interaction, you can add as many Node Replies as necessary, as long as you stay within the 24-hour window set by WhatsApp.
🚫 What you can't do with a Reply Node?
❌ Starting a conversation: you must use a Node Template.
❌ Sending outside the 24-hour window: beyond that, you must use a validated Template.
❌ Connecting to a redirect link: the Node Reply cannot follow a redirect link.