With StratusTEXTING, you can set a time frame where automated actions can be performed when a text message are received during that time. This can be done using an Out of Office automation.

To create and configure an Out of Office automation…

1. Navigate to Tools → Automations.
   
2. Click the Use Workflow button to select the Out of Office (OOO) workflow option.
   
3. For the Title, type an identifiable name for this automation.
   
4. In the Condition section, 
   

   For example… Read the examples below for common scenarios where you may want an automatic OOO response sent out.
   
   After hours: 
   You can select Outside of, type the starting and ending time of your office hours, and select the days you are in your office.
   

   Lunches: 
   You can select Within, type the starting and ending time of your lunch period, and select the days that you are working. 
   

    
5. In the Action section, select and configure the action that should be performed when the text is received outside of normal hours.
   
   

   Quick Tip:  If you would like a text to be sent out, you can create an action where a reply is sent immediately or after a delay. 

   

   You can configure this message to… 
       •  Let callers know that your team is currently unavailable and will respond soon.
       •  State your normal office hours.
       •  Give the contact alternate ways to reach out to your team.

    
6. If needed, click the ADD ACTION button to configure additional actions that should be taken when a missed call is detected.
   
   

   Quick Tip: It may be a good idea to add an action where an internal note or tag is added to the conversation noting that the person messaged outside of normal office hours and needs a response. 

   

    
7. Use the toggle to select if this automation should be ON or OFF after its creation.
   
8. If you are ready to save this automation, click the CREATE button.
   

   ✔ Now when a contact texts you during the selected time and days, the automation will perform its configured actions, such as sending a response to the messenger.