The targeting_ref is a unique identifier that you create for each targeting rule in your contact file. It acts like a code that says: "this contact should receive campaign X".
Why use targeting_ref?
The targeting_ref allows Feedback Management to match each contact with the right campaign. It acts as a link between your targeting file and your campaigns, ensuring that each contact is correctly routed. It therefore guarantees reliable targeting and proper campaign execution.
Using the targeting flow
To activate your targeting in a campaign, the process relies on a simple three-step flow.
1. Preparing the CSV file
Start by preparing your file in CSV format (see dedicated article).
This file must contain a column named targeting_ref.
2. Uploading the file to the SFTP
Once your file is ready, you need to upload it to the SFTP (see dedicated article).
From this location, the Feedback Management (FM) platform automatically retrieves the data.
3. Creating a targeting deployment
Finally, in the platform, you create a targeting deployment.
When configuring your campaign, you need to enter the values of targeting_ref that you want to activate. This allows the deployment to be triggered only for the targeted segments.
Example:
Imagine you have 3 different customer segments:
| First name | targeting_ref | |
|---|---|---|
| Marie | marie@email.com | VIP_CLIENT |
| Jean | jean@email.com | NEW_CUSTOMER |
| Sophie | sophie@email.com | VIP_CLIENT |
When you create a campaign "VIP Christmas Offer", you associate it with an Email deployment and enter the targeting_ref VIP_CLIENT. Automatically, only Marie and Sophie will receive the campaign, as their targeting_ref matches.
Creation rules
Creating targeting_ref is flexible and follows a few simple rules:
-
No limit: you can create as many
targeting_refas needed - No imposed format: names, codes or numbers are accepted
-
One required column: your CSV file must contain a column named
targeting_ref -
One value per line: each line corresponds to one
targeting_refper contact
If a contact needs to be targeted in multiple campaigns, they must appear on multiple lines with different targeting_ref values.
Best practices
- Use explicit names: VIP_CLIENT, NEW_CUSTOMER, INACTIVE_3_MONTHS
- Be consistent: keep the same identifiers over time
- Document your targeting: keep track of what each targeting_ref represents
- Avoid spaces, special characters, or overly long names