Can it use my existing WhatsApp number?
It needs a number on WhatsApp’s business platform, and a number on that platform cannot also be used in the normal WhatsApp app on a phone. Most businesses give the assistant a new number, or move their main number and reply from a dashboard. Luke will set out the options for your business.
What if it gets something wrong?
It answers only from a short file you approve. If the file doesn’t cover a question, it says so and takes a message. You can read every transcript, and the file is updated as you go.
What does it cost to run?
The monthly fee covers the assistant. Meta, which runs WhatsApp, also charges a few cents for each message: about R0.12 for a reply to a customer.
Meta’s fees are billed at cost, with nothing added. You agree a monthly cap at set-up, and Lockhart alerts you before your fees reach it.
Whose name is the WhatsApp number in?
Yours. The WhatsApp number and the Meta business account are registered in your business’s name, so they stay with you if you stop the service.
How long does it take to set up?
The WhatsApp Assistant goes live in 2 weeks. With the Missed-call Voice Agent it takes 3 to 4 weeks.
Can I stop it if something goes wrong?
Yes. Reply in the chat yourself and it stands down on that conversation for 24 hours.
Does it book appointments?
It books calls. Booking into a calendar is planned as an add-on once the core assistant has run for a month.