WhatsApp Integration Setup
WhatsApp is HiLucy's primary guest communication channel. This guide covers how to set up your property's WhatsApp Business number.
Prerequisites
- A dedicated phone number for your property
- A Facebook Business Manager account
- WhatsApp Business API access
How It Works
HiLucy uses the WhatsApp Business API (not the regular WhatsApp app) to send and receive messages. This means:
- Multiple staff can view and respond to conversations
- LucyAI handles initial responses automatically
- Rich messages with buttons, lists, and media are supported
- Message templates for outbound notifications
Setup Steps
1. Provide Your Phone Number
Share your property's WhatsApp number with the HiLucy team. We'll register it with the WhatsApp Business API.
2. Verify Your Business
WhatsApp requires business verification through Facebook Business Manager. You'll need to:
- Verify your business identity
- Confirm your phone number via SMS or voice call
3. Connect to LucyAI
Once verified, messages to your WhatsApp number are automatically routed to LucyAI. The AI handles:
- Greeting new guests
- Answering property questions
- Processing booking inquiries
- Escalating complex issues to staff
4. Test the Connection
Send a test message to your property's WhatsApp number. You should see:
- An automatic greeting from Lucy
- The conversation appearing in your Communication Hub
Custom Templates
For outbound messages (sending messages to guests who haven't messaged you first), WhatsApp requires pre-approved message templates. HiLucy provides default templates for:
- Booking confirmation
- Check-in reminders
- Welcome messages
- Post-stay follow-up
Contact us to create custom templates for your property.