Switching from WhatsApp Business to WhatsApp Business API

June 14, 2023

WhatsApp Business provides essential features for small-scale operations. However, switching to the more advanced WhatsApp API can unlock a whole new realm of functionalities for companies. In this blog post, we'll delve into the process of switching from WhatsApp Business to WhatsApp Business API and explore the benefits that await companies ready to embrace enhanced communication capabilities.

TL;DR

First, you must understand the full potential of the WhatsApp Business API for your business
Evaluate your needs and determine whether you need to switch to the API for scaling
Then choose a WhatsApp BSP and contact them
Verify your business by providing the necessary details and documents
Migrate your data and set up your Business API account
Prepare your infrastructure and implement it for testing
Finally, let your customers know of your switch and what they can expect
This gives you the benefits of scalability and automation while letting you access personalized communication and integrations with CRM systems

What are the steps to switch from WhatsApp Business to WhatsApp Business API?

Understand the WhatsApp Business API

With the WhatsApp API, companies can leverage advanced features, such as chatbots, CRM integration, and personalized messaging, to enhance customer engagement and optimize workflow efficiency. Therefore prior to switching it is important to familiarize yourself with the features, requirements, and capabilities of the WhatsApp Business API. It is also beneficial to go through the documentation and guidelines provided by WhatsApp before switching to the WhatsApp API.

Evaluate your needs

Assess your company’s requirements and determine if migrating to the WhatsApp API is the right choice. Consider whether your company can benefit from its features such as automation and chatbots. Since the WhatsApp Business API is meant to help companies scale their business you also need to consider whether your company is ready for scaling up.

Select and contact a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP)

WhatsApp has partnered with a select number of BSPs like kwiqreply who can help facilitate the integration and provide ongoing support. They provide different features and services at different pricing structures. Choose a WhatsApp BSP that suits your needs and fits within your budget.

Then contact your chosen WhatsApp BSP to discuss the migration process. Check for their level of customer support, proficiency with the API and their technical assistance.

Verify your Business

Verifying your company’s authenticity is an important step of shifting to the WhatsApp Business API. To ensure that your company is properly verified on WhatsApp, you will need to collect and submit specific documents to validate your company. This can include but is not limited to incorporation certificates, tax registration certificates and articles of association. With the help of your BSP you can apply for the Green Tick on WhatsApp that appears next to your company’s name and lets customers know that your company is legitimate.

Data migration

Once you have established your company's legitimacy, it is time to start migrating data to ensure continuity of conversations and customer information. If you have existing customer data or chat history on your WhatsApp Business account, work with your BSP to migrate that data to the WhatsApp API.

Set up your WhatsApp Business API account

Create an account on the WhatsApp Business API platform. Provide necessary business information and complete the registration process with your BSP of choice.

Prepare your infrastructure

Set up the required infrastructure to support the WhatsApp Business API. This includes configuring servers, establishing secure connections (HTTPS), and ensuring compatibility with the API.

Implement and test

Integrate the WhatsApp API into your existing systems or applications. Test the functionality to ensure a smooth transition and address any potential issues or bugs.

Communicate the change

Inform your customers and stakeholders about the switch from WhatsApp Business to WhatsApp Business API. Provide them with any necessary instructions or updates regarding changes in communication channels.

Benefits of switching to WhatsApp Business API

Switching to WhatsApp Business API brings several benefits to companies, including:

Scalability: The WhatsApp API enables companies to handle larger customer bases and scale their operations effectively.

Automation: With features like chatbots and automated messaging, companies can streamline processes and provide faster responses to customer queries.

Personalized Communication: The advanced capabilities of the WhatsApp API allow companies to send personalized messages, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction.

Integration with CRM Systems: Integrating the WhatsApp API with CRM systems enables seamless management of customer interactions, providing a holistic view of customer communication.

In conclusion,

Switching from WhatsApp Business to WhatsApp Business API marks a significant milestone in a business's communication journey. By embracing the advanced features and integration capabilities of the WhatsApp Business API, companies can enhance customer engagement and are accepting new growth opportunities for scaling and revenue.

At kwiqreply, we help you fully leverage the features of the WhatsApp Business API for your organization. kwiqreply is a trusted WhatsApp Business Solution Provider that has helped companies scale up their sales and customer satisfaction. It brings you tried and tested features like bulk messaging, custom message templates, quick response message buttons, etc. Combined with WhatsApp’s capability for media-rich messages, you can send visually appealing messages and gather data for your surveys.

So, seize the opportunity, leverage WhatsApp's potential, and propel your business toward sustainable growth and success! Know more about WhatsApp Business API’s features and start sending surveys by checking out our website today!

Click here to book a free demo and let us show you how you can do more business with WhatsApp.