Indian D2C brands often struggle with providing swift customer support. However, customer support plays a key role in the success (or failure) of ecommerce stores. According to HubSpot, 93% of brands are willing to shop again from your store if you offer them a positive customer experience. 

‍So, how do D2C brands improve their customer support activities to sustain in this competitive environment? 

Something known as WhatsApp API comes into the picture, and today we’ll discuss a detailed topic on How to get WhatsApp API - A Step-by-Step Guide for D2C Brands

‍Well, by leveraging the power of messaging platforms like WhatsApp. WhatsApp is home to over 2 billion users. Majorities of potential customers of a D2C brand are already present in this platform. 

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So, why not make the most of it? 

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D2C brands should also be aware of WhatsApp API, an advanced version of WhatsApp Business. 

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In this guide, we will walk you through the process of getting WhatsApp API for your D2C brand, step-by-step. 

‍How to get WhatsApp API - A Step-by-Step Guide for D2C Brands

What is WhatsApp Business API?

WhatsApp Business API is a solution designed specifically for medium and large businesses that require multiple-user access and improved messaging capabilities at scale. 

WhatsApp Business API 

Unlike the WhatsApp Business App, WhatsApp API offers advanced features such as:  

• Sending broadcast messages to more than 256 contacts at a time 
• Chat routing 
• Auto-assignment of queries 

And many more. 

How to get WhatsApp API for free is a commonly asked question, however, it's important to note that WhatsApp API is not free. Businesses need to consider the costs involved, including: 

• A phone number for creating a WhatsApp API account 
• A messaging inbox for sending and receiving messages 
• WhatsApp's conversation-based pricing charges.

Before applying for a WhatsApp API account, ensuring that your business complies with the WhatsApp Commerce Policy is crucial. WhatsApp has specific restrictions on the types of products and services sold on their platform. 

What is the Best Method for WhatsApp API Integration?

Moving on to the next topic how to get WhatsApp business API, when it comes to WhatsApp API integration, businesses have two hosting options: WhatsApp Cloud API and On-premise API.

• WhatsApp Cloud API is hosted on Meta's cloud servers, providing developers with access to WhatsApp's messaging capabilities and storage resources through a secure and scalable API. 

This option is generally more cost-effective and easier to set up, as Meta oversees infrastructure maintenance and development. Businesses only need to pay for their messaging inbox and WhatsApp conversation charges.

• On the other hand, WhatsApp On-premise API is hosted on a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) or a company's own servers or data centre. This option suits businesses requiring additional support during the application process or prefer complete control and security over their messaging platform. 

It involves WhatsApp Partner-specific costs, including set-up fees, hosting fees, and message markups.

Features of WhatsApp API

1. Messaging Capabilities: The WhatsApp API enables businesses to send and receive messages, including text, images, videos, documents, and more.
2. Automation and Chatbots: Businesses can automate messaging workflows and integrate chatbots to handle customer inquiries, provide support, and deliver personalized experiences.
3. Rich Media Support: The API supports rich media formats, allowing businesses to send engaging content such as product catalogs, promotional videos, and interactive messages.
4. Template Messages: Businesses can use pre-approved message templates to send notifications, reminders, alerts, and updates to customers.
5. Integration with CRM Systems: The WhatsApp API can be integrated with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and other business applications to streamline communication and data management processes.
6. Analytics and Reporting: The API provides insights into message delivery, read receipts, response rates, and other metrics to measure the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and customer engagement efforts.

Benefits of WhatsApp Business API

Let’s now understand about the benefits of WhatsApp Business APIs below:

Enhanced Customer Engagement: The API enables businesses to engage with customers on their preferred messaging platform, providing personalized experiences and timely support.

Scalability: Businesses can scale their messaging operations to accommodate growing customer demand and expand their reach without compromising on service quality.

Efficiency and Automation: Automation features and chatbots streamline communication workflows, reducing manual effort and response times.

Brand Credibility: Having a presence on WhatsApp enhances brand credibility and trust among customers, demonstrating accessibility and responsiveness.

Analytics-driven Insights: Access to analytics and reporting tools helps businesses understand customer behavior, preferences, and trends, enabling data-driven decision-making and optimization of messaging strategies.

Integration Flexibility: The API integrates seamlessly with existing business systems and tools, allowing for a unified approach to customer communication and data management.

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Difference between WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business API:

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WhatsApp Business App: The WhatsApp Business App is a standalone application designed for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). It offers features such as business profile setup, messaging tools, quick replies, labels, and basic analytics. The app is suitable for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to communicate with customers via WhatsApp.

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WhatsApp Business API: The WhatsApp Business API is a solution provided by WhatsApp for larger businesses and enterprises. It offers more advanced features, customization options, and scalability compared to the Business App. The API enables businesses to integrate WhatsApp messaging capabilities into their existing systems, automate messaging workflows, and deliver personalized experiences at scale.

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Cloud API vs. On-premise API - Which Platform is Better for D2C Brands?

With their powerful features, BSP solutions can help D2C brands increase store conversions by 15%. However, as a D2C brand owner, you must also know about Cloud API and how it differs from on-premise API. 

Let's explore the differences between these two approaches: 

Cloud API

WhatsApp Cloud API allows businesses to apply for a WhatsApp API account directly through Meta. This eliminates the need for intermediaries and reduces the overall costs. Meta takes care of the infrastructure maintenance and development, ensuring reliable performance and access to the latest WhatsApp updates and features. 

On-premise API

On-premise API hosting involves partnering with a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) or setting up your own servers or data centre. This option suits businesses requiring additional customisation, control, and security over their messaging platform.

The key differences between of WhatsApp Cloud API and On-premise API are: 

Hosting Fees

WhatsApp Cloud API - You don’t need to pay any setup or hosting fees; businesses only pay for their messaging inbox and WhatsApp conversation charges. 

On-premise API - On-premise API hosting typically involves setup fees, hosting fees, and message markups. These costs can vary depending on the BSP or infrastructure setup.

Ease of use 

WhatsApp Cloud API - A user-friendly interface for creating and managing your WhatsApp API account. The application process is straightforward and can be completed in minutes.

On-premise API - Setting up and managing your servers or data centre requires technical knowledge and resources. If you opt for a BSP, ensure they have the necessary expertise to support your integration. 

Level of customization

WhatsApp Cloud API - You can access technical support and documentation to assist businesses in integrating WhatsApp API into their existing systems and workflows. Meta’s cloud infrastructure ensures businesses can scale their messaging operations as their customer base grows.

On-premise API - This type of hosting allows for more customisation options, enabling businesses to tailor their messaging platform to specific requirements.

Why get your WhatsApp Business API from a business partner

Hopefully, now you understand the different hosting options for WhatsApp API integration. However, getting a BSP solution that matches your requirements can be challenging. There are multiple factors to take into consideration like price, supported features, and integrations. 

In this section, we will explain the steps to get WhatsApp API using a BSP solution:  

Step 1 - Sign up and create an account in the BSP

Visit the BSP's website and sign up for an account. Provide all the necessary information, such as your company details and contact information.

Step 2 - Verify your account in the platform

Follow the verification process specified by the BSP. This may involve providing additional documentation or undergoing a verification call.

Step 3: Set up your WhatsApp Business Account

Create a WhatsApp Business Account using the BSP's platform. This will enable you to send and receive messages through the WhatsApp API. 

WhatsApp Business Account using Pragma

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Step 4: Configure the settings of your D2C brand’s WhatsApp Business account

Customise your WhatsApp Business Account settings according to your business requirements. This may include setting up automated replies, creating message templates, and defining message routing rules.

Step 5: Integrate the API with your WhatsApp Business Account

The BSP will provide you with the API documentation and guidelines for integration. Follow the instructions to integrate the WhatsApp API into your existing systems or software.

Step 6: Test the integration

Before going live, thoroughly test the API integration to ensure that messages are being sent and received correctly. Check for any errors or issues and fix them accordingly.

Step 7: Ask the BSP to activate your API

Once you are satisfied with the testing results, contact the BSP to activate your WhatsApp API integration. They will provide the credentials and access to start using the API.

Remember, each BSP may have specific processes and requirements for obtaining the WhatsApp API. Following their guidelines and seeking support from their technical team whenever needed is essential.

What’s the Next Step After Getting Your WhatsApp API? 

WhatsApp API integration is a powerful tool for D2C brands looking to enhance customer engagement and streamline their messaging processes. Following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily get WhatsApp API for your business and unlock advanced features and capabilities. 

And once you get the WhatsApp API using a BSP like Pragma, there is no going back! It can help you with the following features: 

• Set up real-time drip campaigns for your brand 
• Reduce operational costs by 40% and improve ROI
• Create a personalised buying experience for your customers
• Simplify the checkout process with WhatsApp Payments

FAQs

How to get WhatsApp API for free? 

WhatsApp API is not a free service. Businesses must take into account the costs of a phone number, messaging inbox, and WhatsApp discussion charges when integrating the WhatsApp API.

What are the benefits of using WhatsApp API for D2C brands? 

WhatsApp API is not a free service. Businesses must take into account the costs of a phone number, messaging inbox, and WhatsApp discussion charges when integrating the WhatsApp API.

Can I send bulk messages using WhatsApp API? 

Although there is no restriction on the number of messages you can send, it's crucial to refrain from sending spam or obnoxious adverts to avoid having your number blacklisted.

What is the difference between WhatsApp Cloud API and On-premise API? 

On Meta's cloud servers, WhatsApp Cloud API is hosted, offering a practical and affordable alternative. On-premise API, on the other hand, gives you greater control and customisation choices and requires collaborating with a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) or putting up your own servers or data centre.

What is the benefit of using the WhatsApp API for D2C businesses?

D2C firms may engage with their clients in a more convenient and personalised way thanks to the WhatsApp API. It makes it possible to send transactional notifications, automated messaging, and customer support in real-time, all of which boost client engagement and happiness.

Can I host the WhatsApp API on my servers?

You can host the WhatsApp API on your own servers using the On-Premises API solution. This allows for greater customisation and control over your messaging platform. 

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