Yes, Zoho Creator apps are equipped with robust automation capabilities that include the ability to send personalized emails, push notifications, and SMS alerts. This functionality is crucial for creating responsive, user-driven applications that can engage users, inform stakeholders, and streamline workflows in real time.

How It Works  

Automation in Zoho Creator is powered primarily by workflows and Deluge scripting. These allow you to define specific conditions and actions based on app events, such as:

• Form submissions (e.g., a user submits a registration form)

• Field updates (e.g., an order status changes from 'Processing' to 'Shipped')

• Scheduled events (e.g., send a weekly summary every Friday at 5 PM)

These triggers can then be linked to actions like sending an email, an in-app notification, or an SMS alert.

Email Alerts  

Email alerts are the most commonly used form of communication in business apps. With Zoho Creator, you can:

• Define recipients dynamically (e.g., based on email field inputs)

• Customize subject lines and email body using data from the form

• Include file attachments

• Use HTML formatting for rich email content

Example Use Cases:

• Send a welcome email when a new user registers

• Notify a manager when a leave request is submitted

• Email a receipt to a customer after order confirmation

Push Notifications  

Push notifications can be sent through the Zoho Creator mobile app. These are especially helpful for on-the-go employees and field teams.

Features include:

• Sending alerts on form updates or data changes

• Triggering task assignments and confirmations

• Instant alerts on emergency or high-priority cases

Example Use Cases:

• Alerting a field technician when a new ticket is assigned

• Notifying sales reps about meeting updates or cancellations

SMS Alerts  

For scenarios where users are not online or need immediate attention, SMS is effective. Zoho Creator supports integration with SMS gateways like Twilio, ClickSend, and others.

Features:

• Deluge script can call API to send SMS

• Can be integrated with approval workflows

• Supports templated messages and OTPs

Example Use Cases:

• Sending order shipment tracking details

• Reminders for appointment confirmations

• OTP generation for authentication or form submission

Setting Up Notifications in Zoho Creator  

To implement notifications:

1. Open your application in edit mode.

2. Go to Workflows > Form Workflows / Schedules / Custom Actions.

3. Create a new workflow based on the event trigger.

4. Choose “Send Email Notification”, “Send Mobile Notification”, or write a Deluge script for SMS/API logic.

5. Customize the message using dynamic placeholders (e.g., "Hi ${input.Name}, your request is approved.")

6. Test and deploy.

Security and Control  

• Access to triggers and notifications can be role-restricted.

• All email and SMS activities are logged.

• Users can manage preferences for receiving notifications.

• Built-in email limits help avoid spam flagging.

Scheduled Notifications  

Zoho Creator also supports time-based triggers. These are ideal for recurring alerts or follow-ups:

• Daily sales report to managers

• Monthly invoice reminders to clients

• Weekly pending tasks summary

You can configure these in the “Schedules” section of the Workflow tab.

Best Practices  

• Keep messages concise: Especially for mobile or SMS.

• Use variables wisely: Personalization increases engagement.

• Avoid spamming: Use role-based filters and limits.

• Test triggers thoroughly: Preview emails or alerts to avoid errors.