Automation Alert format - Grid vs single email

David Ungar

I have two automation paths set up. Each of them is basically identical, except for one condition. (That is, if [field] = 'M', do automation #1. If it's 'N' , do automation #2.)

When automation #1 runs, the results are returned in a single email as a grid. (exhibit A)

When automation #2 runs, the results are returned in six emails as a list of fields. (exhibit B)

I can't see any differences between the two automations. But even if there is a small difference that I'm missing, how does Smartsheet determine which way to send the results?

Here are the automations:

Exhibit A - Automation #1 output:

Exhibit B - Automation #2 output:

Andrée Starå

Hi @David Ungar

I hope you're well and safe!

It's because you're using the Placeholder feature.

If six or fewer rows are triggered simultaneously, placeholders with Alert or Update Request actions in change-based workflows will generate separate notifications. If seven or more rows are triggered at once, the custom subject and body will be removed.

More info: 

https://help.smartsheet.com/articles/2477796-dynamically-add-cell-data-in-the-subject-and-body-of-request-messages

I hope that helps!

Be safe, and have a fantastic weekend!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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David Ungar

Automation #1 returns 7 rows. Automation #2 returns 6 rows. But #1 still returns a grid, even with only 2 rows meeting the criteria.

Andrée Starå

Hi @David Ungar

I hope you're well and safe!

It's because you're using the Placeholder feature.

If six or fewer rows are triggered simultaneously, placeholders with Alert or Update Request actions in change-based workflows will generate separate notifications. If seven or more rows are triggered at once, the custom subject and body will be removed.

More info: 

https://help.smartsheet.com/articles/2477796-dynamically-add-cell-data-in-the-subject-and-body-of-request-messages

I hope that helps!

Be safe, and have a fantastic weekend!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

✅Did my post(s) help or answer your question or solve your problem? Please support the Community by marking it Insightful/Vote Up, Awesome, or/and as the accepted answer. It will make it easier for others to find a solution or help to answer!