Deluge, short for Data Enriched Language for the Universal Grid Environment, is Zoho’s proprietary scripting language designed specifically for use within Zoho Creator and other Zoho applications. It enables users to add sophisticated logic and automation to their applications without requiring full-scale programming expertise.

Deluge is what gives Zoho Creator its true power, transforming it from a basic form-and-database tool into a dynamic and intelligent application platform. With Deluge, users can manipulate data, control workflows, customize user experiences, and integrate seamlessly with external systems.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Deluge can do:

1. Workflow Automation:

• Deluge allows you to trigger workflows based on events such as form submissions, field changes, or scheduled tasks. For instance, when a leave request form is submitted, a Deluge script can automatically send it to a manager for approval, log it in a leave tracker, and notify HR.

2. Conditional Logic:

• Deluge scripts let you define custom rules, such as displaying fields based on prior inputs or calculating values dynamically. This makes your apps interactive and tailored to real-life workflows.

3. Data Management:

• You can fetch, update, delete, or create records in real-time across forms using Deluge. This ensures seamless data flow within your application. For example, when a sales order is submitted, Deluge can automatically reduce inventory stock.

4. Email, SMS & Alerts:

• Deluge enables sending customized emails and SMS messages. You can notify users when tasks are assigned, payments are processed, or deadlines are approaching.

5. Third-Party Integrations:

• Using the invokeURL function, Deluge allows integration with third-party platforms via REST APIs. You can connect with CRMs, payment gateways, Google services, Twilio, and more, enabling end-to-end automation.

6. Custom Buttons and Actions:

• Deluge scripts can be linked to custom buttons, so users can trigger specific logic on demand — such as generating invoices, submitting reports, or triggering multi-step approvals.

7. Scheduled Workflows:

• You can set up scheduled functions in Deluge to run at specific times — for example, to send daily reports, calculate KPIs weekly, or archive old records monthly.

8. Portals and User-Based Personalization:

• Deluge lets you design dynamic user portals with logic that personalizes content or actions based on user roles, login status, or data ownership.

9. Data Validation and Error Handling:

• Use Deluge to add backend validations, ensuring data integrity and security. If input doesn't meet the logic, you can stop submission and show a user-friendly error.

10. Reusable Functions:

• Deluge allows the creation of custom reusable functions, making it easy to standardize processes like tax calculations or approval routing across your application.