Here’s How Your Business Can Get Started With WhatsApp API Integration

If you're reading this article, you're probably looking for various ways to integrate the WhatsApp API into your business communications. Well… you’re in the right place then! 

In this guide, we'll dive into everything you need to know about WhatsApp API integration and how it can benefit your business. We’ll cover DIY integration, integration through a WhatsApp solution provider like DoubleTick, and the many benefits you can unlock by choosing DoubleTick for your WhatsApp API integration.

Let's get started.

​What Is WhatsApp API Integration?

​WhatsApp API integration is getting the WhatsApp API platform ready for your business communication. It's setting up the platform so that you can use the WhatsApp API to send bulk broadcast messages and take advantage of other premium features like WhatsApp chatbots that are strategically designed to streamline and automate your customer interactions.

After launching the platform, you can seamlessly integrate it with your preferred third-party apps or platforms. Although these integrations can be complex and require technical knowledge of the platform setup ecosystem, you need not worry. At DoubleTick, we’ll handle the entire setup process and seamlessly integrate your WABA platform with the apps or platform of your choice.

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Methods of WhatsApp API Integration

There are two ways to integrate the WhatsApp API:

1. DIY WhatsApp API integration​

2. WhatsApp API integration via a solution provider​

Let's talk about the pros and cons of each in detail.

DIY WhatsApp API Integration

DIY WhatsApp API integration means accessing the WhatsApp API through Meta and manually setting up the integration. This method requires technical knowledge and can be time-consuming, but it allows for more customization and control over your integration.

Advantages

• Customization: With DIY integration, you have the freedom to customize the WhatsApp API according to your specific business needs. You can tailor the integration to match your branding, messaging style, and customer experience, providing a unique and personalized touch.

• Control: DIY integration gives you greater control over the functionality and behaviour of the WhatsApp API. You can fine-tune the features, settings, and automate workflows to align with your business goals and customer engagement strategies.

• Flexibility: By opting for DIY integration, you have the flexibility to adapt and scale your WhatsApp API integration as your business grows. You can easily make adjustments, add new features, and optimize the integration based on changing market trends and customer demands.

Disadvantages

• Technicality: DIY integration requires technical expertise and knowledge of coding languages like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. This can be a challenge for businesses that don't have dedicated IT teams or developers with the required skills.

• Time-consuming: Unlike using a third-party solution, DIY integration involves setting up everything from scratch. This can be time-consuming and may require constant updates and maintenance as WhatsApp releases new updates.

• Limited Customer Support: When opting for a DIY integration, you won't have access to immediate technical support from the WhatsApp team. You'll need to rely on your own resources or seek help from online communities if you encounter any issues.

• No Support for Indian Credit Cards: Businesses need to add their credit card to their WhatsApp account to use the WhatsApp API services directly from Meta. However, Indian credit cards are currently not accepted, making it difficult for businesses in India to set up a DIY integration.

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WhatsApp API Integration via a Solution Provider

The alternative to DIY integration is to sign up with a WhatsApp solution provider like DoubleTick. At DoubleTick, we’ll handle the entire setup process for you so that you can access ready-to-use solutions with advanced features like WhatsApp chatbots, order booking bots, campaign and team analytics, differentiated WABA number, custom integrations with any third-party business tools you use and much more.

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Advantages

• Done for You: With a WhatsApp solution provider, the integration process is already taken care of. This means you don’t have to spend time and resources on building and maintaining an integration yourself. You can focus on your business while the provider handles all technical aspects.

• Payment Flexibility: Solution providers can manage billing with Meta on your behalf, and offer much more flexibility in terms of payment options. This way, you can easily manage your budget and have a more efficient billing process. You can pay via a wide range of payment gateways—Stripe, Razorpay, Worldpay, and more—depending on what’s easiest for your business.

• Immediate Support: Solution providers often provide dedicated support teams that are available to help with any issues or questions you may have during the integration process. They also have connections with Meta’s support team that can help resolve any technical issues quickly and efficiently.

• Advanced Features: Solutions like DoubleTick offer additional features and tools that make using WhatsApp for business even more effective. These may include automated messaging, in-depth analytics, advanced chatbots, and personalization options that can greatly enhance your customer communication strategy.

Why Choose a WhatsApp Solution Provider for WhatsApp API Integration?

There are various reasons to choose a WhatsApp solution provider for WhatsApp API integration. A few of them are listed below:

Ease of Access

You can easily get access to WhatsApp API with the help of a solution provider, as you needn’t struggle through the exhaustive process to get it directly from Meta. Your WhatsApp service provider will do all the hard work for you and set up the platform seamlessly in no time. 

Ease of Use

Solution providers make it easy for marketers to enjoy the benefits that the WhatsApp API offers—even if they're not tech-savvy.

For example, DoubleTick offers a simple and user-friendly interface that anyone can use. Plus, we offer a fully managed API integration, so there’s no need to worry about configuration, setup, or technical support.

DoubleTick also has a robust mobile app that lets your team chat with customers, send out broadcasts, assign conversations on the go, and much more. This is a major advantage, as it allows for better collaboration and faster response times—and it’s something Meta doesn’t offer.

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Round the Clock Support

Speaking of support, by choosing a solution provider, you’re really accessing a team of WhatsApp API experts.

At DoubleTick, we have a dedicated support team available 24/7 to assist with any questions or concerns you may have. This means you can focus on your business while we handle the technical aspects of your WhatsApp integration.

Extra Features and Tools

Solution providers often hook you up with a bunch of cool additional features and tools that are perfect for your business needs. You can customize message templates, dig into real-time analytics, and even integrate with other software or platforms. 

Take DoubleTick, for example.

Our platform offers a team inbox, in-depth broadcast and team analytics, no-code WhatsApp chatbots, an AI-powered commerce bot, differentiated WABA number and a lot more. Plus, with DoubleTick, you can easily target valuable customer segments, send automated abandoned cart reminders, and schedule messages for future delivery.

Requirements for Accessing WhatsApp API Through DoubleTick

Before we go through the further process, let’s take a look at the following requirements to access the WhatsApp API via DoubleTick:

You need to follow the below steps to access the DoubleTick WhatsApp API:

1. Get a phone number that does not have an existing WhatsApp account

2. Sign up for a DoubleTick plan

3. Complete Facebook Business verification

After completion of these steps, you will be able to use all the functionalities of WhatsApp Business APIs on the DoubleTick dashboard.

Requisites to Apply for DoubleTick WhatsApp Business API

• A Facebook Business Manager account

• A verified business

• A WhatsApp business account

• A fresh phone number

• A Line of Credit for the WhatsApp business account

You’ll also need at least 2 of the following documents:

• Business bank statement

• Business License

• Certificate of incorporation

• Goods and services tax registration certificate (GST)

• Permanent account number card (PAN)

• Shop establishment certificate

• Udyog Aadhar / MSME Certificate

• Utility bill

Now, let’s talk about how to get started.

How to Get Started With DoubleTick

Step 1: Get a Phone Number That Isn’t Linked to any WhatsApp Account

To set up your WhatsApp Business API account with DoubleTick, the first step is to get a dedicated phone number solely for this purpose. This number shouldn't be linked to any existing WhatsApp accounts, allowing for a fresh start in your business communications.

Although it's possible to use an existing phone number for your WhatsApp API account, it's important to note that all the existing data associated with the number will be deleted.

Step 2: Sign Up for DoubleTick

To sign up for DoubleTick, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose a plan from DoubleTick’s pricing page and make the payment. 

2. After that, you'll be redirected to a link where you can connect your WhatsApp API account with your Facebook Business Manager. Click on “Continue with Facebook” and log in using your Facebook account.

3. On the next page, click “Get Started”.

4. Now, you need to link your WhatsApp API account with a Facebook Business Manager.

5. You can either create a new Facebook Business Account or link to an existing one.

6. Next, set up your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA). Start by filling in your WhatsApp Business Display Name.

7. Select an Industry Category and continue.

8. Provide your WhatsApp number and decide how you want to verify it (via SMS or Voice).

9. Enter the 6-digit verification code and click “OK” on the final step.

Once you've completed these steps, you'll receive your account information via email within 15 minutes.

Step 3: Complete Facebook Business Verification

Once you're done with the steps mentioned above, you'll receive your DoubleTick WhatsApp API access. However, to get full access, you have to complete your Facebook Business Verification. 

To do so, please follow the below-mentioned steps:

1. Go to your Facebook Business Manager account by clicking here and navigating to Business Settings.

2. On the left-hand side panel, click “Security Centre” and hit the “Start verification” button to begin the process.

3. You'll then be asked to link your WhatsApp account to your Facebook Business Manager account. If your WhatsApp account isn't already linked, provide your phone number and verify it with a text message.

4. After linking your WhatsApp account, choose the Page you want to associate with it.

5. Provide your business information like legal name, address, email, phone number, and website URL.

6. Upload a copy of your business registration certificate or other required documents as per the requirement of your country or region.

7. Verify your business's legal name, address, and phone number by uploading a document. Provide a phone number in case Facebook were to make a verification call. 

8. Verify the credentials via a code shared by Facebook. You can choose to receive a verification code via email or phone number. Do note that email is the fastest verification mode.

9. Wait for the verification process to complete. You'll be notified when your account is verified.

Keep in mind that the verification process may vary based on your country and industry, and WhatsApp might ask for additional information or documents.

Conclusion

The WhatsApp API is a powerful tool for businesses looking to expand their WhatsApp outreach, automate customer interactions, and generate more revenue through WhatsApp.

By choosing DoubleTick you can simplify this process and boost your sales by 7X. 

With DoubleTick you can access a range of features, including bulk messaging, message scheduling, chatbots, analytics, team management, and more to get the most out of WhatsApp for your business. Plus, we're here to help you every step of the way—from setting up your account to configuring it.

Experience the benefits of WhatsApp’s API today.