Learn about the built-in Delay Tool available in Flows.
This article covers the following topics:
- What is the Delay Tool and what does it do?
- What challenges does the Delay Tool address?
- How to Access the Delay Tool
What is the Delay Tool and what does it do?
The Delay Tool introduces a customizable pause in the operation of the Flow, allowing users to set a specific duration before the next step is executed.
What challenges does the Delay Tool address?
When building Flows, timing is often critical. However, not all processes happen simultaneously or at the same speed.
The Delay Tool in Flows is designed to address common challenges where precise timing between workflow steps is essential. Here are some of the key issues it helps resolve:
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Handling Dependencies: Certain tasks in a workflow may depend on the completion of prior tasks. Without a built-in delay, subsequent actions could trigger prematurely, leading to failed processes or incomplete data transfers.
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Managing Rate Limits: APIs and external systems often have rate limits that prevent too many requests within a certain time frame. The Delay Tool allows you to pause workflows, helping you stay within these limits and avoid service disruptions.
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Spacing out Notifications: Sending notifications or emails too quickly can overwhelm recipients or appear spammy. By adding delays, you can ensure communication is spread out in a more manageable and user-friendly way.
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Synchronizing with External Systems: Sometimes, external systems or APIs might take longer to update or process data. The Delay Tool ensures that your Flow waits for the system to catch up, preventing issues like data conflicts or errors from premature actions.
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Improving Data Consistency: Delays can be used to give enough time for data to be updated across different platforms, ensuring that the next steps in the workflow are acting on the most up-to-date and consistent information.
How to Access the Delay Tool
After selecting the Flow where you want to utilize the Delay Tool, identify the specific steps within the Flow that require the Delay tool.
You can then add the tool by clicking on the "+" button underneath each necessary step. Clicking the "Tool" option will allow you to select from a range of different tools Flows offers, including the Delay Tool.
