Introduction

Creating a functional WhatsApp chatbot involves several essential steps. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step checklist to help you get started efficiently.

From setting up accounts to integrating payment gateways, this summary covers everything you need to launch your chatbot successfully.

The Essential Checklist to Build Your WhatsApp Chatbot

1. Create a Chat Account

• Platform: UChat

• Steps:

  • Sign up for a free 14-day trial (no credit card required).

  • Fill in your name, email, password, and other details.

  • Log in automatically after registration.

• Purpose: This account serves as the foundation for managing your chatbot.

2. Obtain a WhatsApp API

• Recommended Provider: 360dialog

• Reasons to Choose 360dialog:

  • Best pricing: Approximately $5/month with a special offer.

  • Supports new WhatsApp features: Template messages, product catalogs, etc.

• Setup Options:

  • Verified Facebook Business Manager: Required for official API access.

  • Sandbox Environment: For testing purposes, no verification needed.

• How to Get API Keys for Sandbox:

  • Send a message to the designated number with "start" to receive API credentials.

  • Use the YouTube tutorial on connecting the sandbox account for step-by-step guidance.

  • Link to the tutorial is provided in the description.

3. Verify Your Facebook Business Manager

• Process:

  • Follow the detailed steps in the YouTube video titled "You start building your WhatsApp chatbot for $5/month."

  • Verify your business and register a new number with 360dialog.

• Outcome: Enables access to the full API features, including higher message limits.

4. Connect Payment Gateways

• Native Support:

  • Stripe and PayPal are supported directly.

  • How to Connect:

    • Use the integrations section in your platform.

    • Copy and paste your API keys.

    • Follow the straightforward tutorial on YouTube for detailed steps.

• Local Payment Gateways:

  • Check the Mini Apps Store for pre-built integrations (e.g., Razer Pay, others from Malaysia, Africa, Brazil).

  • Build Your Own Mini Apps:

    • Use the visual flow builder to create custom mini apps for local payment gateways.

    • A dedicated YouTube tutorial guides you through building Razer Pay mini apps from start to finish.

Summary Table

Summary

By following this checklist, you will have a fully operational WhatsApp chatbot capable of handling customer interactions and payments.

Remember, the key steps involve setting up your chat platform, obtaining and verifying your WhatsApp API, and integrating payment solutions.

With the available tutorials and resources, building and customizing your chatbot becomes straightforward.

Stay consistent, utilize the training videos, and explore the Mini Apps store for additional functionalities. Good luck with your chatbot journey!