Slate AI can help draft and refine HTML in a Deliver mailing. A useful workflow is to build the recipient list first, then prompt Slate AI from the mailing editor so it can reference the available merge fields and dictionary exports.
This article uses an event mailing as the example, but the same process can be adapted for other Deliver mailings that use merge fields, Liquid markup, or HTML source editing.
⭐ Get Inspired
This article was adapted from a post by Technolutions staff in the Slate Community Forums' Get Inspired space. Have a great idea for a Get Inspired post? Let us know!
Prepare the recipient list
Create the mailing's recipient list query before prompting Slate AI. This makes the query exports available as merge fields in the mailing editor and helps Slate AI generate content that reflects the actual data available to the message.
For example, an event mailing might include:
Recipient name exports.
Staff-assigned exports.
A dictionary export that returns upcoming events.
Any URLs or labels that should appear in buttons or links.
For more information about recipient lists, see Recipient Lists.
Start in the mailing editor
Open the Deliver mailing.
Select Edit Message.
Open the WYSIWYG editor or source editor where Slate AI should make changes.
Prompt Slate AI to create the first draft of the message.
Example prompt:
Can you help me create an email for prospective students that loops through upcoming events?
Refine the design in source
After Slate AI creates a first draft, open the source and ask for specific design adjustments. For example, you might provide a color, a gradient, or a visual reference from another portal or mailing.
Add conditional content
Slate AI can also help draft Liquid markup for conditional content. Be specific about the desired condition and fallback.
Example prompt:
Add Liquid markup to sign the message from the assigned staff member when one exists. If no staff member is assigned, sign it from The Slate University Admissions Team.
Preview with a test record
Use the HTML source live preview and sample message tools to review the mailing as it will render for a specific record. Confirm that the event loop, staff assignment logic, links, and responsive layout all work as expected.
📝 Note
Review all generated HTML, CSS, and Liquid markup before sending. Slate AI can accelerate drafting, but the mailing still needs normal testing, proofing, and approval.
Additional prompt ideas
Convert an existing event link into a styled button.
Highlight upcoming interviews separately from other events.
Adjust spacing, colors, or typography to match an institutional template.
Rewrite a section for a different audience while preserving the same merge fields.