Variable Fallbacks Guide

The Variable Fallbacks feature ensures your messages remain professional and readable, even when certain supporter data is missing. When you're using dynamic variables like [donor_first_name] and the information isn’t available for a recipient, fallbacks allow you to define a default value to use instead.

What Are Variable Fallbacks?

Variable fallbacks are default values that replace missing supporter data in email, text, or message templates.

For example:

• Without a fallback:
  Hi [donor_first_name], → becomes Hi , if no first name exists.

• With a fallback:
  Hi [donor_first_name], → becomes Hi there, or Hi supporter, if the first name is missing.

When to Use Fallbacks

Use fallbacks when:

• Sending bulk messages to supporters

• You want to avoid broken or awkward formatting when data is missing

How to Set a Variable Fallback

1. Open the Message Builder
   Navigate to the email or SMS editor where you’re building your message.

2. Use Variables in Your Message
   Example:
   Hi [donor_first_name], thank you for supporting our cause!

3. Scroll to the Bottom of the Page
   Look for the Variable Fallbacks section.

4. Enter Fallback Values

   • In the input field, type the variable name you’re using (e.g., donor_first_name)

   • Set a replacement value (e.g., there, supporter, or friend)

   • Example fallback entry:

     • Variable: donor_first_name

     • Fallback: supporter

5. Save or Send as Usual
   Your message will now automatically replace missing variables with the fallback value you entered.

Example

Original Message Template:

If [donor_first_name] is missing:

Notes and Best Practices

• Use natural-sounding fallback values like “there,” “friend,” or “supporter” to keep the tone friendly and professional.

• Double-check the variable names match exactly with those used in your message—fallbacks only apply to exact matches.

• You can set fallbacks for multiple variables at once in the same message.

Summary

This feature helps ensure your messaging looks polished and intentional—no blank spaces or awkward formatting due to missing data.