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In this guide, we’ll introduce you to Phonely’s powerful variable system that serves as the backbone for capturing, storing, and reusing information throughout your call workflows. The Variables system serves as a vital tool for personalizing conversations, powering integrations, and automating follow-ups with dynamic data capture and storage capabilities.
Variables are the backbone of how Phonely agents capture, store, and reuse information during live calls and for post-call reporting and follow-ups.

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Key Features

  1. Pre-Built Variables - Automatically available on every call with essential call data
  2. Custom Variables - User-defined values that can be reused across workflows
  3. Auto-Gather Variables - Capture caller input at the moment it’s needed
  4. Post-Call Variables - Comprehensive data available after call completion
  5. AI-Generated Metadata - Automatic extraction of insights and sentiment analysis

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Pre-Built Variables

Automatically available on every call: These are passed from the telephony system automatically and require no configuration.

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Custom Variables

Custom variables are user-defined values that can be reused across workflows for consistent configuration. Key Benefits:
  • Consistent Configuration - Set values once and use across multiple workflows
  • Flexible Data Types - Support for text, numbers, emails, phone numbers, and more
  • API Integration - Store API keys and configuration data for seamless integrations
Example Use Case: Store your API key once as a variable and use it in multiple API request blocks.

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Auto-Gather Variables

Auto-gather captures caller input at the moment it’s needed instead of requiring a separate block.
  • Example
In an API request block, define caller_name as an auto-gather variable. At runtime, Phonely will prompt the caller for their name before sending the request.

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Post-Call Variables

After a call ends, all live variables remain available. Additional post-call variables are automatically generated: Caller & Agent Data - Essential identification and workflow information Transcript & Recording - Conversation data and media access AI-Generated Metadata - Intelligent analysis and insights Extracted Entities - Automatically captured structured data Phonely automatically extracts structured data from conversations: Follow-Up & Action Items - Post-call automation and task management Call Metadata - Timing and identification data Outcome Tracking - Success metrics and call analysis A/B Testing Variables - Testing framework data

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How to Use

1

Access Variables

Navigate to your workflow editor and access the Variables section to configure custom variables.
2

Create Custom Variables

Define your custom variables with appropriate data types and mark required fields as needed.
3

Configure Auto-Gather

Set up auto-gather variables in your blocks to capture caller input dynamically.
4

Use in Workflows

Reference variables in your workflow blocks using the variable syntax.
5

Access Post-Call Data

Use post-call variables in integrations and follow-up workflows for comprehensive call analysis.

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Example Use Cases

  • Lead Qualification
  • Appointment Scheduling
  • Customer Support
Use custom variables to store lead scores and qualification criteria, then reference them in follow-up workflows.

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Best Practices

  • Use descriptive variable names - Choose clear, meaningful names for your custom variables
  • Leverage auto-gather for dynamic input - Capture caller information exactly when needed
  • Utilize post-call variables for analytics - Take advantage of AI-generated insights for reporting
  • Test variable configurations - Ensure variables work correctly before deploying workflows
  • Document variable purposes - Keep track of what each variable is used for in your workflows

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Why Variables Matter

Variables enable you to:
  • Personalize conversations dynamically - Use caller data to create tailored experiences
  • Power integrations - Pass caller details into CRMs and other systems via API
  • Automate follow-ups - Use post-call data to trigger automated follow-up actions
  • Track outcomes and performance - Analyze sentiment, success rates, and call metrics for continuous improvement
Ensure all variables are correctly configured to maximize call handling efficiency and data accuracy.

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Conclusion

Phonely’s comprehensive variable system provides the foundation for creating dynamic, personalized, and data-driven call experiences. By effectively utilizing pre-built, custom, and post-call variables, you can build sophisticated workflows that adapt to each caller’s needs while capturing valuable insights for your business.

Workflow Guide

Learn how to build effective workflows using variables.
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