In Web2Chat,
user_id is a unique identifier that helps you track and manage your users across multiple devices and sessions. By assigning a user_id to each user, you can create a unified profile that consolidates their activity and interactions, enabling personalized and consistent support experiences.What Is user_id?
user_id is a unique, developer-defined string or number that serves as the primary identifier for a user in Web2Chat. Unlike temporary identifiers like cookies or session IDs, user_id is consistent across:- Different devices or browsers used by the same user.
- Multiple sessions for the same user.
This consistency ensures that all interactions with a user are linked to the same profile, regardless of where or how they access your platform.
Why Use user_id?
1. Unified User Profiles
By using
user_id, you ensure that all interactions—whether on your website, app, or via email—are tied to a single profile. This prevents duplicate profiles and provides a complete view of the user's history.2. Cross-Device Tracking
When users log in on different devices or browsers,
user_id links their activity to the same profile. For example, a user who starts a conversation on their laptop and continues it on their phone will have all messages consolidated into one thread.3. Personalized Support
Having a single user profile with all relevant data allows your team to provide personalized assistance, reference past interactions, and anticipate the user’s needs.
4. Better Analytics
Using
user_id improves reporting and analytics accuracy by ensuring user actions are not fragmented across multiple profiles.How to Set Up user_id in Web2Chat
1. When Is user_id Assigned?
user_id is typically assigned when a user creates an account or logs into your platform. If you don’t assign a user_id, Web2Chat will automatically generate a temporary identifier for the session.2. Implementing user_id
To assign a
user_id:- Use the Web2Chat SDK or API to set the
user_idfor logged-in users. - The
user_idshould be unique and immutable for each user (e.g., the user’s database ID in your system).
Example in JavaScript:
javascript
CopyEdit
Web2Chat('boot', { user_id: '12345', // Replace with your unique user identifier name: 'John Doe', // Optional email: '[email protected]' // Optional });3. Updating User Data
If you need to update user details (e.g., name or email), you can pass the new data along with the existing
user_id. Web2Chat will update the profile accordingly without creating duplicates.Best Practices for Using user_id
- Make It Unique: Ensure
user_idis a unique, non-changing identifier for each user. Using database IDs or UUIDs is recommended. - Assign It Early: Set the
user_idas soon as a user logs in or registers to avoid creating multiple profiles. - Secure the Data: Avoid using sensitive information like emails or phone numbers as the
user_id. Instead, use an internal ID from your system. - Handle Anonymous Users: Assign
user_idonly to logged-in users. For anonymous users, rely on Web2Chat’s temporary identifiers.
FAQs
1. What happens if I don’t set a user_id?
Web2Chat will automatically assign a temporary identifier for the session. However, if the user switches devices or browsers, their profile will not carry over, resulting in fragmented data.
2. Can I update a user_id?
No,
user_id is designed to be immutable. If you need to merge profiles or change identifiers, contact Web2Chat support for assistance.3. How is user_id different from email or name?
While email and name are attributes associated with a user,
user_id is the primary identifier that links all data to a single profile. It remains consistent even if a user updates their email or name.4. Can I use user_id to segment users?
Yes, you can filter and segment users based on their
user_id or associated attributes in Web2Chat’s reporting and automation tools.If you need further assistance, contact our Customer Support.