Use Azure Service for WhatsApp Messages via Dataverse (Preview)

Summarizing a well-written post by Temmy Rahyu Raharjo on using Dataverse to send WhatsApp messages employing Azure Communication Service. The post piqued my interest due to the many potentials this concept presents, particularly in implementing business applications. The crux of this idea is to employ the features within Dataverse using its Custom API, which is explicitly designed for optimum reusability and efficiency.

Temmy explains, in a user-friendly and comprehensive manner, about how to prepare the Azure Communication Service alongside WhatsApp for business. The process involves visiting portal.azure.com, creating new communication service and setting up the WhatsApp channel. Temmy has shared his personal experience, mentioning that he needed to purchase a new number during testing and emphasizes on correctly noting the Channel ID for future use.

The more advanced features of this service are accessed through "Advanced Messaging (Preview)" on the Communication Service Dashboard, with several code samples provided to help users accurately send their chats.

To integrate all this with Dataverse, Temmy walks us through setting up a Custom API in Dataverse by preparing the Plugin Project. Here, it is crucial to have certain dependent assemblies installed to ensure smooth functionality. Further, Temmy provides extensive guidance on how to use the nuget package 'Azure.Communication.Messages' to establish these dependencies via the plugin project.

The following step involves code implementation. The NuGet package, once installed, prepares and supplies the code. As per the given template, the custom API needs two specific variables, referred to as 'To' and 'Message'. Simply put, these create an interaction channel through which messages can be sent via WhatsApp when an established connection links the NotificationMessagesClient.

Another crucial result of this code implementation is the output, which is supplied by the 'Receipts' object. After building the plugin through the Plugin Registration Tool, a custom API is achieved through the Custom API Manager. Finally, the API is put through a test run.

Some limitations Temmy discovered during his testing where that, although any number can be targeted without error using the Custom API Tester, the chats will not be sent if the recipient does not initiate the conversation first.

WhatsApp and Azure Communication Service

The combination of WhatsApp, Azure Communication Service, and Dataverse provides a robust and reliable way for businesses to automate and enhance their communication processes. This unique amalgamation allows for features such as scheduling messages, personalized messaging, and automation of communication workflows. As communication and connection become increasingly crucial in modern business operations, harnessing these features can significantly streamline processes, create efficiencies, and positively impact customer relations, not to mention the cost-saving potentials.