Adding merge codes to a letter template

Alto uses a word processor to create letter templates. In each letter template, merge codes can be added to personalise it so when it's produced, details like a contact's name, a property address, or your branch phone number, fill in automatically when the letter is sent, all without you having to retype them every time.

When a document is created, the content can be edited before you Finalise and either Print, Email or send by E-Sign to the selected recipients.

There are two types of letter templates in Alto, to which merge codes can be added:

• Ad hoc template

• One that is based upon a Timeline entry (also known as an event-driven template)
  An event driven letter is triggered by a specific process, i.e. when a market appraisal has been completed or an offer accepted

What are merge codes?

Merge codes are placeholders enclosed in hash symbols, for example #contact_salutation# or #branch_name#. When the letter is sent, Alto replaces each merge code with the matching information from the record - such as the recipient contact or a linked property.

Adding merge codes

1. Click Tools (the cog) on the main navigation bar
2. In the dropdown menu, click Templates and admin
3. On the side menu, under App Tools, click Letter & Stationery Templates
4. Click the Letter Template you want to edit
5. The Letter Template opens. Position your cursor in the area of your letter template where you’d like the merge code to appear. Either click Merge code on the toolbar, or, press # on your keyboard
6. The merge code search box opens. Start typing the name of the merge code until the correct code appears (A description identifying more details of each merge code appears with each code)
   For a complete list of merge codes for letter templates, click here
7. Click on your required merge code. It will now appear in the position of your cursor on the template
8. Click Save

• Related Help Centre articles that you may find useful.

  List of standard letter templates

  List of merge codes for letter templates

  List of merge codes for email templates

  Adding merge codes to an email template

  Customising your letter templates ready for E-Signing

  Letter editor features

  Adding an image into a letter template

  Adding an attachment to a letter template

  Adding page numbering to a letter template

  Adding a signature to a letter template