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Understand Nodes: The Building Blocks of Flows

Nodes are the fundamental building blocks of every flow in Sequence Studio. Each node performs a specific function—like sending a message, waiting for a reply, or making a decision—and by connecting them, you create powerful, interactive conversations.

If you're new to flows, check out Build Flows first for a step-by-step guide to creating and connecting nodes. This page dives deeper into what each node does and how to use them. For advanced logic, see Conditions & Logic next.

What Are Nodes?​

A node represents a single step or action in your assistant's flow. By combining different node types, you can:

  • Send messages
  • Collect information
  • Make decisions
  • Call APIs
  • And much more

Node Types and When to Use Them​

Nodes

Text Block Node​

  • Purpose: Outputs a static text block.
  • When to use: Any time you want to explicitly write a certain message to the user.
  • Example: "Welcome to PizzaBot! How can I help you today?"

AI Model Node​

  • Purpose: Outputs a text block generated by an AI model.
  • When to use: Any time you want your assistant to say something—greetings, instructions, confirmations, etc.

Send Message Node​

  • Purpose: Sends a message to the user consisting of the output of the previous node.
  • When to use: Directly after a Text Block, AI Model, or other node to send a message consisting of its output.

Wait for Reply Node​

  • Purpose: Pauses the flow and waits for the user to respond.
  • When to use: Whenever you need input from the user before continuing.
  • Example: "What would you like to order?"

Set Value Node​

  • Purpose: Stores information (like user input) in a variable.
  • When to use: When you want to remember something the user said, or set a value for later use.
  • Example: Save the user's name or choice.

Condition Node​

  • Purpose: Branches the flow based on variable values (if/else logic).
  • When to use: When you want to take different actions depending on what the user said or did.
  • Example: If the user is a new customer, show onboarding; otherwise, skip ahead.
  • See Conditions & Logic for advanced branching techniques.

Intent Classify Node​

  • Purpose: Uses AI to figure out what the user wants (their "intent") and route the conversation accordingly.
  • When to use: For open-ended questions, or when you want your assistant to handle multiple topics flexibly.
  • Example: Route to "Order Pizza", "Check Order Status", or "Ask a Question" based on what the user types.
  • See Conditions & Logic for more on intents and smart branching.

Other Useful Nodes​

  • Collect Info: Sends a form to the user to collect information like phone number, name, date, etc.
  • Code Snippet: Run a snippet of Javascript code.
  • API Call Node: Connect to external services or databases.
  • End Node: Mark the end of a flow or conversation.
  • Front: Integrate with Front live chat
  • Crisp: Integrate with Crisp live chat

How to Choose the Right Node​

If you want to...Use this node
Say something to the userText Block
Say something to the userAI Model
Wait for user inputWait for Reply
Remember what the user saidSet Value
Take different paths based on dataCondition
Route by user intent (AI)Intent
Collect information from the userCollect Info
Run a snippet of codeCode Snippet
Call an external APIAPI Call
End the conversationEnd
Integrate with FrontFront
Integrate with CrispCrisp

Tips for Using Nodes Effectively​

  • Keep flows simple: Start with a few nodes, then add complexity as needed.
  • Use variables: Store important info for use later in the flow.
  • Test each branch: Try different user inputs to make sure all paths work.
  • Label/comment: Use node labels or comments to keep your flows organized.

With a solid understanding of nodes, you can build powerful, flexible flows that handle any conversation scenario. Next, try building your own flow or explore advanced logic in Conditions & Logic.