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How to Use Rules to Add Items to a Channel

When setting up a channel, define which items to include using Static or Smart List rules. This automates exports and ensures only the right items are sent.

Updated over a week ago

Key Features or Concepts

  • Rules Button: Visible in the Items tab of a new channel, marked with “No rules defined.”

  • Static List: Manually selected items. Fixed list that doesn't change unless you add or remove items.

  • Smart List: Automatically includes items based on predefined criteria. Dynamic and updates as product data changes.

    • Published: Includes all currently published items.

    • Filtered: Includes only published items that meet specific filter conditions.


How It Works / How to Use

1. Define the Rule

  • Go to the Items tab of your channel.

  • Click the “No rules defined” button.

2. Choose Rule Type

  • In the modal that appears, choose between:

    • Static List

    • Smart List (Published or Filtered)

3. Static List – Manual Selection

  • Use search and filters to find items.

  • Select individual items or all matching results.

  • Confirm your selection to add them to the channel.

4. Smart List – Automatic Selection

  • Published: Adds all products currently marked as published.

Filtered: Set filters to include only specific published items.

  • If no filters are applied, all published items are added.

  • If filters are applied, only matching published items are included.

  • ⚠️ Filters in Smart Lists determine which items get added, not just which are shown. Be careful to apply them correctly.


Practical Tips or Best Practices

  • Use Static Lists when you need full control and prefer manual curation.

  • Use Smart Lists when your product data changes often and you want the channel to stay updated automatically.

  • Remember: searching or filtering alone doesn’t add items—you must explicitly select them in Static Lists.

  • Changing rules from Smart to Static will show previously added items already selected, allowing you to adjust them manually.


Summary

Rules are essential for controlling which items go into a channel. Use Static Lists for manual control and Smart Lists for automation. Choosing the right type helps ensure the right data gets to your receivers with minimal effort. You can always switch between list types as your needs change.

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