**To create and use custom attributes on [Papo](https://papo.global/) contacts without using code, go to Settings → Custom Attributes to define custom fields such as text, number, date, or list. Then populate the values manually or via import and use these attributes in dynamic segments and automation Flows, branching each contact’s journey based on real data from your business.**

With custom attributes, you enrich the CRM with information beyond the basics — plan, city, interest, last purchase, or any strategic data. These fields are available to create truly relevant communications and automate decisions without depending on the team.

## Summary of steps

| Step | What to do | Why it matters |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 1. Create the definition | In **Settings → Custom Attributes**, add a new attribute with key, display name, and type. | Prepares the field that will be used throughout the CRM. |
| 2. Fill in the values | Edit the field on each contact’s profile, import a spreadsheet, or sync via integration. | Makes the data usable for segments and automations. |
| 3. Use in Flows | Insert a condition node “Contact attribute” and configure the rules. | Automates personalized branches (messages, tags, notifications). |
| 4. Create segments | In Segments, filter contacts based on the attributes. | Generates dynamic lists for targeted campaigns and sends. |

## How it works: step by step

### 1. Create the attribute definition
Go to **Settings → Custom Attributes** and select the option to add a new attribute. Define:

- **Key (attribute_key)** – internal identifier, such as `plan` or `city`. It cannot contain spaces.
- **Display name** – the text that appears in cards and filters, for example “Contracted Plan”.
- **Model** – field type:
  - **Text** – for names, short notes.
  - **Number** – for quantities, scores, ranges.
  - **Date** – due dates, last renewal, etc.
  - **List** – predefined options, ideal for fields such as “Pro”, “Enterprise”, or “Basic”.

The new attribute appears immediately on contact profiles, ready to be filled in.

### 2. Populate values on contacts
With the definition created, values can be entered in three ways:

- **Manual**: when opening a contact’s profile, you see the field and can edit it right away.
- **Batch import**: upload a CSV spreadsheet mapping the columns to the attribute keys, so the data is added in bulk.
- **Automatic integration**: using the Papo API, webhooks, or connectors, you can sync the attributes with external systems (CRM, ERP, e-commerce).

Once populated, the attributes can be continuously updated with any interaction.

### 3. Automate with Flows based on attributes
In the Flow editor, add a condition node and choose the type **“Contact attribute”**. Configure the rule:

- “Contracted Plan is equal to Enterprise” → sends a VIP welcome message.
- “City contains São Paulo” → routes to the regional manager.
- “Last purchase date is before 90 days ago” → triggers re-engagement.

Each branch can have actions such as sending a message (WhatsApp, email), adding a tag, creating a task in Kanban, or notifying the team. The Flow respects WhatsApp’s 24-hour window: longer pauses require an approved HSM template.

### 4. Create dynamic segments
Go to **Segments** and define a filter using the custom attribute, for example: “Role = Director” or “Score > 80”. The segment is updated automatically whenever a contact meets the condition, and can be used as an audience in WhatsApp campaigns (Broadcaster), email marketing, or other communications.

## Who custom attributes are recommended for

- **SaaS and subscription companies** that distinguish communications by plan or usage.
- **E-commerce businesses** that segment offers by city, purchase frequency, or spending range.
- **B2B operations** that track role, region, or funnel stage in the CRM.
- **Sales and CS teams** that need to prioritize contacts visually and automatically.
- **Any business** that already collects structured data and wants to turn it into relevant messages without manual work.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do all Papo plans allow creating custom attributes?
Yes, the feature is available on the platform. To check any limits or differences between plans, consult the pricing page on Papo’s website.

### What types of attributes can I create?
The interface offers **Text**, **Number**, **Date**, and **List** (predefined options). The choice depends on the type of data you intend to store and filter.

### Can I edit or delete an attribute after creating it?
Yes, it is possible to rename, change the type, or remove the attribute in settings. However, when deleting a field that is already being used in automations or segments, review the dependencies to avoid breaking the flow.

### How can I populate values in bulk without typing them one by one?
You can import a CSV spreadsheet mapping the columns to the attribute keys. Another option is to use the Papo API to sync the data automatically with your external CRM or ERP.

### Can custom attributes be used in bulk send campaigns?
Yes. When creating a campaign in the Broadcaster, you can select a segment that was built based on the attributes. This way, large-scale sending respects your audience’s real information.

### Do the attributes appear in reports?
Yes, custom attributes can be used as filters and grouping criteria in CRM reports, helping analyze conversions and performance by custom dimension.

## Read also

- [How to use the Papo API to manage contact custom attributes](/hc/papo/articles/how-to-use-papo-api-manage-contact-custom-attributes)
- [How to use Segments to create dynamic contact lists and send targeted campaigns](/hc/papo/articles/how-to-use-segments-dynamic-contact-lists-targeted-campaigns)

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