Table of Contents

1.What is the WhatsApp Business app?

2.What is WhatsApp Business API ?

3.WhatsApp Business App vs WhatsApp Business API

4.Top Features of the WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business API

5.Which service is more suitable for your online business: WhatsApp Business or WhatsApp Business API?

6.VertexSuite: The Complete Solution for E-commerce and Marketing

What is the WhatsApp Business app?

In the market, both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business App are popular free chatting apps. However, WhatsApp Business is specifically tailored for businesses, making it ideal for small business owners to boost customer communication and enhance their overall business prospects.

For small businesses, WhatsApp Business App offers a superior solution to address various challenges. It allows business owners to create profiles, showcase product catalogs, share website links, and automate welcome messages, among other beneficial features. This collection of tools significantly improves customer communication and streamlines essential business operations.

What is WhatsApp Business API ?

While WhatsApp Business App is well-suited for small businesses, it may not fully cater to the requirements of medium and large enterprises due to its limited features. To bridge this gap and provide more advanced capabilities, WhatsApp Business API was introduced. This powerful API enables businesses to integrate advanced customer support tools, enhancing their communication and customer service.

With WhatsApp Business API, businesses can implement custom chatbots, allowing automated and personalized interactions with customers. The API also facilitates seamless ticket management, enabling efficient handling and resolution of customer queries. Moreover, businesses can set up automated replies, send timely updates, and manage customer interactions more effectively, all through the API’s advanced tools.

By leveraging WhatsApp Business API’s features, businesses can significantly enhance their customer support system, providing a more efficient and satisfying experience for their customers. This, in turn, fosters stronger customer relationships and boosts overall business growth.

WhatsApp Business App Vs WhatsApp Business API

1. Target Audience:

WhatsApp Business App: The WhatsApp Business App is specifically designed for small businesses and solo entrepreneurs. It provides an easy-to-use platform for them to connect with their customers and manage communication efficiently. Whether you’re a local shop owner, freelancer, or a small business owner, this app empowers you to interact with your customers in a more professional and organized way.

WhatsApp Business API: On the other hand, the WhatsApp Business API is tailored for medium and large-scale businesses. It offers more extensive integration and customization options, making it suitable for businesses that require advanced features and have a higher volume of customer interactions. With the API, larger businesses can build custom tools and solutions to enhance their customer communication on a larger scale.

2. Seamless Team Inbox:

WhatsApp Business App: If you choose the WhatsApp Business App, you’ll get a user-friendly team inbox right within the app. It’s like a central hub where you and your team can easily manage all the messages from your customers.

WhatsApp Business API: Now, if your business is larger and you need more robust features, the WhatsApp Business API is the way to go. It offers an advanced team inbox with the ability to connect with other systems you might already be using. This integration makes it super easy to keep track of all your customer queries and ensures smooth ticket management for your team. With the WhatsApp Business API, handling customer messages becomes a breeze!

3. Streamlined Ticket Management:

WhatsApp Business App: If you opt for the WhatsApp Business App, you’ll have some basic ticket management capabilities, but they might be a bit limited. It means you can handle customer queries, but you might need to do some manual work.

WhatsApp Business API: On the other hand, with the WhatsApp Business API, you get extensive ticket management options. It’s like having a smart system that can automate tasks for you! The API allows you to set up automated replies and integrate with other tools, making ticket handling a breeze. You’ll save time and provide quicker, more efficient support to your customers. It’s ticket management made easy!

4. Instant Automated Responses:

WhatsApp Business App: With the WhatsApp Business App, you can set up basic automated replies to swiftly respond to common questions. It’s like having quick answers at your fingertips! Your customers will get instant replies, but the options for customization might be limited.

 WhatsApp Business API: The WhatsApp Business API takes automated responses to the next level! You can create more dynamic and personalized replies for your customers. It’s like having a smart chatbot that understands and responds in a more human-like way. You can customize the responses according to different scenarios and create a more engaging experience for your customers. It’s instant support with a touch of personalization!

5. WhatsApp Voice Call Support:

Business App: Allows voice calls within the app for direct communication.

Business API: Voice calls are not supported directly within the API.

6. Cost:

WhatsApp Business App: The WhatsApp Business App is absolutely free to download and use. It’s a budget-friendly option for small businesses to start professional communication with customers.

WhatsApp Business API: While the WhatsApp Business App is free, accessing the WhatsApp Business API involves associated costs. You’ll need to partner with an API provider to get access to the API. The API provider might charge fees based on your usage and specific requirements. However, the API offers more advanced features and capabilities, making it a valuable investment for medium to large-scale businesses. It’s like upgrading to a premium service with enhanced functionalities!

7. Instant Broadcasts:

WhatsApp Business App: With the WhatsApp Business App, you can send broadcasts to a limited number of recipients, up to a maximum of 256. It’s like sending a group message to a selected group of people at once.

WhatsApp Business API: The WhatsApp Business API offers a more powerful broadcasting feature. You can send bulk messages to a larger audience, making it ideal for businesses with a broader customer base. It’s like having a megaphone to reach out to all your customers at the same time, ensuring effective communication and engagement. This feature is especially useful when you have important announcements, promotions, or updates to share with your customers at scale.

8. Button Messages:

WhatsApp Business App: The WhatsApp Business App provides predefined buttons that offer quick and easy replies during conversations. These buttons allow you to select from a set of predefined responses, making it convenient to respond to customer queries with just a tap.

WhatsApp Business API: On the other hand, the WhatsApp Business API takes button messages to the next level. It allows you to create customizable buttons with dynamic actions. This means you can design buttons tailored to your specific business needs and offer different responses based on user interactions. For example, you can set up buttons that lead to different product options, provide links to specific web pages, or trigger automated processes. This level of customization enhances user engagement and makes interactions with your business more interactive and efficient. With dynamic buttons, you can provide a seamless and personalized experience for your customers, ensuring they get the information they need quickly and effortlessly.

Buttons can be of three types:

1. Call To Action (CTA) Button – Visit a website
2. Call To Action (CTA) Button – Call a phone number
3. Quick Reply Buttons (up to 3 per message)

9. Chatbot Integration:

WhatsApp Business App: The WhatsApp Business App offers basic chatbot capabilities, allowing you to set up simple automated responses. While it can handle some automated interactions, its capabilities are limited compared to the API.

WhatsApp Business API: With the WhatsApp Business API, you can achieve advanced chatbot integration and create more sophisticated conversational experiences. The API allows you to build and integrate powerful chatbots that can handle complex interactions, provide personalized responses, and even carry out transactions. This level of automation enhances user engagement and enables your business to provide seamless and efficient customer support.

10. Group Messaging Power:

WhatsApp Business App: In the WhatsApp Business App, users can join and interact with existing groups just like they do in the regular WhatsApp application. This allows businesses to create and manage groups to communicate with their customers, share updates, and engage in conversations.

WhatsApp Business API: Unlike the WhatsApp Business App, the API does not support direct group interactions. This means that businesses using the API cannot create, manage, or engage with groups through the API directly.

One Of The best Example Of WhatsApp Business API Like Jio Mart

JioMart, a popular online grocery platform in India, uses WhatsApp Business API to offer you an amazing shopping experience. With the API, they can quickly reply to your questions and solve any issues you may have. You get instant order confirmations and updates on deliveries, making shopping hassle-free.

JioMart also sends you special offers and discounts through broadcasts, so you never miss out on great deals. Plus, you can easily browse and choose products using interactive buttons in the chat. They even have a helpful chatbot to assist you with common queries.

For their business partners, JioMart uses secure group messaging to ensure smooth communication and coordination. This way, everyone involved in the process stays connected and informed.

Thanks to WhatsApp Business API, JioMart makes grocery shopping convenient, fun, and efficient for you. They are dedicated to providing personalized and timely service, making them one of the top online grocery platforms in India.

Automated Notifications:

If a customer places an order through your WhatsApp API or website, you will be able to send them automated notifications like this

1. Confirming orders
2. Recovering abandoned carts
3. Providing order tracking updates
4. Verifying cash on delivery

This saves time and scales as your business grows, offering a hassle-free way to engage with customers.

Top Features of the WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business API

WhatsApp Business App Features:

1. Business Profile:

Set up a special profile with all your business details, like the name, contact info, website link, and location. It helps customers recognize your business easily and reach out to you.

2. Display Business Hours:

Let customers know when you’re open for business, so they know when to expect replies from you. Being clear about your working hours builds trust and helps them plan when to contact you.

3. Show Your Product Catalog:

Display your products or services with pictures, descriptions, and prices in the app. This lets customers see what you offer and helps them make smart choices when buying.

4. Set Automated Welcome and Away Messages:

Welcome customers with automatic messages when they contact you for the first time. It gives a friendly greeting and shows you’re ready to help. And when you’re away, set messages to let them know when you’ll be back.

5. Quick Replies:

Save time by making ready-to-use replies for common questions. Just use shortcuts to access these replies and reply to customers quickly and consistently.

6. Labels to Tag Customers:

Keep your customer interactions organized with labels like “New Customer,” “Waiting for Payment,” or “VIP.” It helps you manage your relationships with customers and give them the attention they deserve.

WhatsApp Business API Features:

WhatsApp Business API is a powerful and paid solution meant for medium to large businesses to improve customer service and communication. It offers advanced tools to handle customer queries from one place, making interactions smooth.

 At Vertexsuite, we take WhatsApp Business API to the next level, providing you with an even better experience that helps your business grow effortlessly. Our simple subscription process makes it easy for you to access this cutting-edge API, allowing you to focus on expanding and improving your business.

1. Reach More Customers with Broadcasts:

With WhatsApp Business API, you can send messages to as many customers as you want, but only to those who have agreed to receive your messages. This way, you can keep them informed about your latest updates, offers, and important news.

2. Use WhatsApp Business on Multiple Devices:

You and your team can use WhatsApp Business on different phones or computers, making it convenient to handle customer chats from anywhere. No need to stick to one device all the time!

3. Save Time with Automated Notifications:

Set up automatic messages to be sent to customers when they place an order, when it’s out for delivery, or when they need to make a payment. This saves you time and keeps customers in the loop.

4. Chatbots for Quick Answers:

You can add helpful chatbots to your WhatsApp Business. They can answer common questions from customers instantly, even when you’re not online.

5. Show Your Business is Real with a Verified Green Tick:

With WhatsApp Business API, you can get a special green tick on your profile. It shows customers that your business is real and trustworthy.

6. Make Messages More Interactive with Clickable Buttons:

You can create messages with buttons that customers can click on to take specific actions. For example, they can easily see your products or get in touch with your support team.

7. Seamless Integration:

The API seamlessly integrates with your existing e-commerce customer support tools, enabling your entire team to manage and respond to customer queries from a single WhatsApp business number. This streamlines communication and ensures a consistent customer experience.

8. Advanced Tools:

WhatsApp Business API offers a range of advanced tools and features to enhance customer service and communication. These tools enable personalized interactions and automation, allowing you to provide efficient and tailored support to your customers.

9. Single Platform Management:

With WhatsApp API, you can answer customer queries and manage interactions from a single platform. This centralized approach simplifies customer support and saves time for your team.

10. Custom Chatbot with Conversational Flow:

Create a personalized chatbot with dynamic conversational flows, providing instant responses and interactive customer interactions.

11. Allow Unlimited Team:

Collaborate seamlessly with your entire team as WhatsApp Business API allows unlimited team members to manage customer inquiries effectively.

12. Pay-per-Use Model:

WhatsApp Business API operates on a pay-per-use basis, making it cost-effective for medium to large businesses. You only pay for the messages and services you use, providing flexibility and control over expenses.

Which service is more suitable for your online business: WhatsApp Business or WhatsApp Business API?

WhatsApp Business App:

– Designed for small businesses and solo entrepreneurs.

– Create a business profile with essential details like business name, contact information, and website link.

– Showcase your products or services with images and descriptions in the app.

– Set up automated welcome messages to greet customers when they first message you.

– Easily reply to customer queries with quick replies for frequently asked questions.

Example: If you run a small Grocery Store or a local Restaurant ,  WhatsApp Business App can be a perfect choice. You can showcase your products, provide quick responses to customer inquiries, and offer personalized recommendations to enhance the shopping experience.

WhatsApp Business API:

– Geared towards medium to large-scale businesses.

– Integrate with your existing customer support tools for efficient query management.

– Set up automated notifications for order confirmations, delivery updates, and more.

– Create customized chatbots to handle common queries and provide instant responses.

– Broadcast messages to a larger audience for promotions and announcements.

Example: If you run an online e-commerce store with a large customer base, WhatsApp Business API can be the ideal solution. You can automate notifications, handle a higher volume of customer queries with chatbots, and engage with a broader audience through broadcasts.

VertexSuite: The Complete Solution for E-commerce and Marketing

1. Professional Dashboard: Access a user-friendly and professional dashboard that centralizes all your WhatsApp communications, making it easy to manage and respond to customer inquiries efficiently.
2. Verified Template Creation: Create verified message templates effortlessly with VertexSuite, ensuring compliance with WhatsApp guidelines and enabling seamless communication with customers.
3. Automated Notifications via Shopify, Woo Commerce Integration: Integrate VertexSuite’s WhatsApp API with your Shopify or Woo Commerce store to automate order notifications, delivery updates, and other important communications, providing customers with real-time information and enhancing their shopping experience.
4. Custom Chatbots: Leverage VertexSuite’s powerful chatbot builder to design intelligent and interactive chatbots without coding knowledge, enabling automated responses, personalized recommendations, and round-the-clock customer support.
5. Secure and Reliable Communication: Ensure secure end-to-end encryption with VertexSuite’s WhatsApp API, providing a safe and trustworthy platform for customer interactions.
6. Scalability: VertexSuite’s WhatsApp API caters to businesses of all sizes, from small to large, supporting your growth and expanding customer base.
7. Enhanced Customer Engagement: Utilize broadcasts, clickable buttons, and interactive messages to engage customers effectively, driving higher sales and fostering long-term relationships.
8. Expert Support: Benefit from VertexSuite’s dedicated support team, providing assistance and guidance throughout the integration and utilization of the WhatsApp API.

With VertexSuite’s advanced WhatsApp API services, you can take your e-commerce business to new heights, offering seamless communication, personalized experiences, and exceptional customer service.