Setting up a product catalog for WhatsApp Business through the KWIC application enables seamless e-commerce functionality, allowing customers to browse and purchase products directly through WhatsApp. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process from initial setup to automation, ensuring your business can leverage the full potential of WhatsApp commerce.

Step 1: Initial Setup and Verification (Simultaneously)

KWIC Application Login

Begin by logging into your KWIC Application using your credentials. Once logged in, navigate to the dashboard and locate the e-commerce section. Alternatively, you can access this by going to your profile, selecting the WhatsApp channel, and choosing the catalog option, which provides similar functionality.

Meta Business Suite Configuration

In Meta Business Suite, begin by selecting the appropriate business portfolio. Under the ‘Account’ section, choose the WhatsApp Business account for which you want to set up the catalog. Next, navigate to WhatsApp Manager and ensure the correct phone number linked to your business is selected. From the left-hand menu, click the icon and select ‘Commerce Manager’ to proceed with the catalog configuration.

Step 2: Commerce Manager Setup

Creating Your First Product Catalog

If you are new to adding products, the system will navigate you to the Catalog type selection. Choose from options such as online products, local products, or other relevant categories based on your business model. Select your business portfolio and provide a name for your catalog, then click next to continue.

Event Tracking Configuration

At this stage, you can create event tracking if needed for analytics purposes, or skip to the next step if this is not required for your current setup.

Product Upload Method Selection

Choose your preferred product uploading method. You can either connect to a data feed for automated updates or opt for manual upload depending on your operational preferences. Click next to proceed.

Data Feed Setup

For automated uploads, select the ‘Upload File’ option and paste your Google Sheets link. Note: A template format is provided on the right side, outlining the required structure for your feed data. Download the template and complete it accordingly—ensure that columns 1 through 10 are accurately filled, as these fields are essential for catalog functionality. All other columns are optional.

Final Catalog Configuration

In the confirmation step, provide your catalog name, select the appropriate currency, and set up hourly updates if desired. Once your catalog is created, navigate to the overview section where you can view your catalog items. You can also create multiple product sets under the catalog for better organization.

Step 3: Facebook and WhatsApp Synchronization

Connecting KWIC to Facebook

Return to the KWIC Application and navigate to your profile, then go to the e-commerce section. Under “Effortless Product,” locate the step to connect WhatsApp and copy the KWIC ID provided.

Facebook Data Source Configuration

Open Facebook and navigate to the data source section. Under the catalog area, click on “Assign Partner” and paste the WhatsApp ID you copied from KWIC. Enable the “Manage Catalog” option and click Accept to complete the partner assignment.

Completing the Integration

Copy the catalog ID from Facebook and return to KWIC. Navigate to the e-commerce section, paste the catalog ID, and click connect. Once connected, select your products in the e-commerce section and click the sync button on the right side. Your catalog products will now be visible in KWIC.

Product Set Synchronization

If you have assigned product sets, these will also sync under the catalog collections. Navigate to your KWIC profile, select the WhatsApp channel, and enable both the catalog cart and catalog visibility buttons to make your products accessible to customers.

Step 4: Automation and Customer Flow Setup

Creating Bot Flows

Return to the KWIC Application and navigate to the Automation section. Select the Bot Flow creation option to design your customer interaction flows. Create comprehensive flows that include address collection, order confirmation, order details, and payment method attachment to ensure a smooth customer experience.

Customer Reply Management

Access the Customer Reply section in KWIC and add your designed flow materials. Navigate to the automation section, locate the automation actions, and enable the “Cart Item Received” feature. Select the particular flow you want to trigger when customers interact with your catalog items.

Step 5: Testing and Optimization

Comprehensive Testing Protocol

Place test orders through your WhatsApp catalog to ensure all systems are functioning correctly. Verify that all automation flows work as expected and test the payment processing functionality thoroughly. Confirm that order confirmation and tracking systems are operating properly.

Performance Monitoring

Monitor your catalog performance regularly and make adjustments as needed. Ensure that your product information is accurate and up-to-date, and that your automation flows provide a seamless customer experience.