What are the most common automation mistakes?

Automation mistakes often follow predictable patterns:

Technical errors: Broken trigger conditions that never fire. Missing suppression integration. Loops that multiply sends. Timing errors in delays.

Strategic errors: Too many automations overwhelming recipients. Stale content that is no longer relevant. Missing exit conditions that keep people in flows forever. Poor coordination between flows.

Data errors: Relying on fields that may be empty. Personalization without fallbacks. Segment definitions that drift over time.

Process errors: Launching without adequate testing. No monitoring after launch. Failure to update automations as business changes. Lack of documentation.

Prevention: Testing protocols before launch. Monitoring dashboards after launch. Regular audits of automation performance. Documentation and knowledge sharing.

Most mistakes are preventable. Process and discipline catch them before recipients do.