Dynamic Lists

Dynamic lists allow you to combine lists from separate areas across your account, provided they use the same Core Table. They're useful for maintaining an up-to-date filtered list for regular use, without waiting for filters to run, or as a data source for Automation Programs.

They can be created using one or more inclusion lists, and any number of exclusion lists and filters—giving you the opportunity for powerful data control and advanced data segmentation.

On this page:

Creating a Dynamic List

Dynamic lists can be created with the "Create Dynamic List" button on the right of the list overview, or a Dedicated Dynamic List can be created when selecting a mailing list on the campaign overview.

However, the creation process is the same.

Step 1: List Name

Give the list a name. This is how the interface will refer to your list, so we recommend choosing something recognisable.

Step 2: Description

This is optional; you can use it to record any additional information you wpuld like.

Step 3: Owner User

Choose the list's owner. Defaults to the current user.

Step 4: Core Table

Choose the core table, which will then determine which lists can be used.

Step 5: Updating

When choosing how to update a Dynamic List you can choose whether to schedule it, leave it as automatic or both.

If you check scheduled you can then provide the time of update and your timezone (this will default to the user's timezone).

The automatic scheduling option is checked by default. When checked the list will be updated as part of the launch process.

Note: If you select Scheduled Update, an 'Inactivity Review' panel will appear at the bottom of the form.

Step 6: Record History

Controls whether changes to the list are recorded or not. See the Lists topic for more information.

Step 7: Tagging

Provide list tags.

Step 8: Inactivity Review

Note: This only appears if 'Scheduled Update' is selected.

It is best practice to deactivate ongoing scheduled updates, this is so your account and lists run smoothly.

Choose from either 6, 3, or 1 month and if there is no list size change in the chosen period the scheduled update will be deactivated.

Note: The list will still be accessible for campaign launches and manual updates.

Step 9: Save and Next Steps

Once you've configured the Dynamic List, click "Save" to create it. You will then be taken to the overview, where you can add the lists and filters that will populate the Dynamic List.

Dynamic List Management

Overview

The overview page shows Dynamic list general information, and is where lists can be added to populate the list. You can also manually update your list by clicking 'Update'.

Providing List Data

You can add new lists, exclusion lists or filters at anytime by clicking the "Add" buttons underneath each section. To remove, select the object you wish to remove and click the "Remove" button.

  • Lists: lists used as a source of data
  • Exclusion lists: lists that are excluded from the dynamic list
  • Filters: Saved filters that will filter the list

These updates will take effect either on a manual update, the scheduled update time or before launch.

Note: Dynamic lists cannot use other Dynamic lists to create it.

Tabs and Administration

The tabs and actions for a Dynamic List are the same as all other lists. To see what can be changed or actioned, see the List tab topic.

Integration with Automation Programs

When lists are associated to an Automation program the 'Associated Programs' tab will be displayed. For more information on lists and Automation, refer to our Managing Contacts topic.

If your list is associated with a program, there will be a yellow notification warning you that Imports are likely to add contacts to a Program. It is also important to remember that if a list is also part of a Dynamic List there is the potential for updated contacts to be placed in Programs through these too.

You will see this notification when in the Dynamic List 'Overview' and 'Browse' tabs (as well as the 'Import' tab for normal lists).

You will also get a pop-up when you attempt to update your list, to confirm the update.

List Expiry Warning

If you schedule your Dynamic List updates you will be asked to input an inactivity period.

If your list is soon to be deactivated you will see the following warning when you are within the Data tab.

FAQ

My dynamic list update timed out, why is this?

It could be that you have complex filter which takes time to complete, update times will vary according to the list's filter. However, if the update takes longer than 23 hours it will time out and you will be notified.

My list size and timestamp hasn't updated at launch, is this an issue?

No, it isn't. At launch an up-to-date list will be used. This will occur if you have only set your Dynamic List to update automatically. The reason it is not updated at launch is to prevent conflicts with update jobs that are running at the same time.

Is it possible to have a dynamic list that updates more than once per day?

No, a dynamic list can only have one scheduled update per day. But if "Automatic Update" has been checked then it will be updated before each launch.

Is it possible to have a dynamic list update nightly and automatically when launching?

Yes, leave the "Automatic Update" checkbox checked, and check and configure the "Scheduled Update" section.

Can I manually update a list that is set to update automatically?

Yes, there is an update button in the overview page that allows you to update the dynamic list.

Can I use a dynamic list in more than one workspace?

No, multiple workspaces cannot use the dynamic list simultaneously. However, you can change the workspace it is located in via the 'Settings' tab.

Why am I getting an Unsub List Warning

Because Dynamic lists are a combination of regular lists contacts cannot be removed from them. This means that users who click an unsub link in an email will still receive content. An associated unsubscribe list solves this by suppressing the contact at launch.