Shared Conversation Concepts
Every conversation surface can carry:- An agent or agent version
- Contact context such as
leadId - Variables used inside prompts or tools
- Metadata for CRM or reporting use
- Conversation records you can review later
Conversation Surfaces
Voice
Best for real-time qualification, support, intake, reminders, and transfers.
SMS
Best for short updates, follow-ups, opt-ins, confirmations, and workflow steps.
Best for longer follow-up, summaries, scheduling, and asynchronous outreach.
Web Chat
Best for embedded product or marketing site conversations.
Voice Calls
Voice conversations can begin in two common ways:- A user calls a number assigned to an inbound agent or squad
- You launch an outbound call with direct dispatch or a workflow step
Direct Dispatch Example
SMS Threads
SMS uses persistent threads rather than one-off messages. This is the right model for follow-up, reminders, re-engagement, and workflow-based text outreach.Email Threads
Email threads are outbound-initiated conversations tied to a deployed version. The version should have a verified sending domain configured before you start sending.Web Chat
Web chat threads are created on demand and return a short-lived token for the client. Chat creation is protected by an allowlist of approved domains.allowedChatDomains.
Design Guidance
- Use voice when the conversation needs urgency, nuance, or live transfer.
- Use SMS when a short asynchronous reply is enough.
- Use email when responses are longer or need richer written context.
- Use web chat for product surfaces or public website entry points.
- Reuse variables and metadata consistently across channels so workflows and reporting stay clean.