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Understanding the Pre Call API Node

The Pre Call API Node is a specialized component in Atoms workflow that executes before the conversation begins. It allows you to fetch initial variables from external systems (like CRM, databases, etc.) that can be used throughout the conversation flow.

Unlike regular API nodes, Pre Call API nodes can only be attached to the Start node and must be executed sequentially (parallel execution is planned for future releases).

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Example: Customer Support Workflow

Here’s how a Pre Call API Node enhances a customer support workflow:

1️⃣ Before Conversation Starts

  • Pre Call API fetches customer details from CRM
  • Retrieves customer’s previous interaction history
  • Loads any active support tickets

2️⃣ During Conversation

  • Agent uses pre-fetched information to personalize interaction
  • References customer history without asking redundant questions
  • Provides context-aware support

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Creating a Pre Call API Node in Atoms

Follow these steps to add a Pre Call API Node to your workflow:

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1️⃣ Add the Node

  • In the Node Type Selector, choose Pre Call API Node
  • Connect it to the Start Node
  • Remember: Pre Call API nodes must be connected sequentially

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2️⃣ Configure API Details

  • Set up the API endpoint and method
  • Configure headers and authentication
  • Define request body if needed
  • Map response data to workflow variables

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Parameters of the Pre Call API Node

The Pre Call API Node requires several parameters for proper configuration:

ParameterDescription
Node NameIdentifier for the node (e.g., “Fetch Customer Data”)
API URLThe endpoint URL to call
MethodHTTP method (GET, POST, etc.)
HeadersHTTP headers for the request
BodyRequest body (for POST/PUT methods)
VariablesMapping of API response to workflow variables

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Best Practices for Pre Call API Node

✅ Efficient Data Fetching

  • Only fetch data you’ll need during the conversation
  • Use appropriate caching strategies
  • Handle API failures gracefully

✅ Variable Naming

  • Use clear, descriptive names for mapped variables
  • Follow a consistent naming convention
  • Document variable purposes

✅ Error Handling

  • Set default values for critical variables
  • Define fallback behavior for API failures
  • Log errors for debugging

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Common Use Cases

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1️⃣ CRM Integration

// Example API response mapping
{
  "customerName": "$.response.data.name",
  "accountType": "$.response.data.account.type",
  "lastInteraction": "$.response.data.interactions[0].date"
}

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2️⃣ Product Catalog

// Example variable usage in conversation
Agent: "I see you're interested in {{productCategory}}.
       Our latest {{productName}} is priced at {{productPrice}}."

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3️⃣ User Preferences

// Example preference mapping
{
  "preferredLanguage": "$.response.data.preferences.language",
  "communicationChannel": "$.response.data.preferences.channel"
}

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Limitations and Future Enhancements

🚧 Current Limitations

  • Sequential execution only

🔮 Planned Features

  • Parallel API call support
  • Advanced error handling

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Summary

The Pre Call API Node is a powerful tool for enriching conversations with external data before they begin. By fetching relevant information upfront, you can create more personalized and efficient conversational experiences.

Next Steps: Learn about API Call Node to understand how to make API calls during the conversation!