Why it matters
Whippy’s data model is built around a small set of core concepts that power messaging, automation, and personalization. Understanding how these components relate to each other helps you structure your data, target the right audiences, and automate effectively.
Key Concepts
Contacts:
Individual people who receive messages through Whippy. Each contact has fields such as phone number, email, tags, custom fields, and a default channel. Contacts are the foundation for all communication in Whippy and the starting point for segments, lists, and automations.
Segments:
Dynamic groups of contacts created using filter rules. Segments update automatically as contact data changes. They are ideal for real-time targeted automations and recurring campaigns. Segments can use contact fields, tags, or object data.
Lists:
Static groups of contacts created manually or by uploading contact files. Lists do not update automatically. They are best for fixed audiences like event invites or imported customer groups. Each upload also generates an upload tag that identifies the list.
Objects (Custom Data):
Structured data linked to contacts (for example, orders, appointments, candidates, jobs). Objects contain fields used for personalization and automation. They are typically created through integrations or API syncs. Object values can inform segments and trigger automations without needing to update contact fields directly.
Interconnections:
All data types work together. For example, objects can power segments, segments can trigger campaigns, and lists serve as reusable static audiences. A single contact may have many objects, tags, and custom fields.
Step-by-Step: Navigating Whippy’s Data
Go to Data from the sidebar to access Contacts, Segments, Lists, and (if available) Objects.
Use Contacts to view, edit, and manage individual people.
Use Segments to build dynamic audiences that update automatically.
Use Lists to manage static audiences created from uploads or manual grouping.
Use Objects (when present) to view structured records tied to contacts and drive advanced personalization and automation.
Tips and Best Practices
Treat contacts as the central record and keep their fields clean and consistent.
Use segments for ongoing or changing audiences; use lists for fixed or one-time audiences.
Apply tags to help group contacts quickly and trigger automations without creating segments.
Ensure object data is synced accurately from external systems to maximize personalization.
Review your data structure periodically as automation needs evolve.
Troubleshooting
Issue | Possible Cause | Fix |
Unexpected segment membership | Contact data or object values do not match filter rules | Review and adjust segment filters or contact fields |
List missing contacts | Incorrect upload mapping or deselected entries | Reupload and verify column mapping and row selection |
Automation not triggering | Missing tags, data updates, or object values | Review trigger conditions across contacts, objects, and segments |
Object data not appearing | Integration or API sync issues | Confirm sync configuration and object definitions in Settings |