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Zoho Cliq

Slash Command

A Slash Command in Zoho Cliq is a custom keyword prefixed with a forward slash that users type in any chat to trigger a predefined action or Deluge

Technical Term

Slash Commands turn the chat input box into an action bar. Because they are typed inline, they require no UI context-switching, which makes them particularly effective for repetitive lookups or triggers that happen many times per day. A well-named slash command lowers the barrier to using integrations for non-technical users who would never open a developer console.

How Slash Command Works in Zoho Cliq

A Slash Command is configured inside a Zoho Cliq Bot or Connector. When a user types a forward slash followed by the command keyword in any channel or direct message, Cliq routes the input and any accompanying text to the associated Deluge handler. The handler processes the request, optionally calling external APIs, and returns a response visible in the chat. Commands can accept free-text arguments after the keyword to parameterise the action.

When to Use Slash Command

Slash Commands suit repetitive, query-style actions that users perform while already in chat: fetching a record, creating a quick task, posting a status update to a project board, or generating a short report. They are particularly useful when the action involves a single, well-understood input. Avoid slash commands for multi-step workflows requiring form-style inputs; a Cliq Widget or a bot with guided conversation is better suited.

Key Considerations for Slash Command

Each slash command must be registered as part of a Bot in the Cliq developer panel and given a unique name within the organisation. Command names cannot contain spaces; use hyphens for multi-word names. The Deluge function handling the command must complete within the platform’s execution timeout, so avoid long-running operations. Test commands in a private channel before deploying to a high-traffic team channel.

India Example: A Hyderabad-based IT services company configured a slash command called /ticket followed by a ticket number. Support engineers type it in the #helpdesk channel to instantly pull the latest status from their service desk tool, removing the need to open a separate browser tab during customer calls.
Where do you create a Slash Command in Zoho Cliq?

Slash Commands are created inside the Zoho Cliq developer panel, within the Bot configuration. Navigate to Bots in the Cliq admin settings, open or create a bot, and add a new command under its Commands section. You define the command keyword, a short description shown to users in the autocomplete list, and the Deluge handler function that runs when the command is invoked.

Can slash commands in Zoho Cliq accept arguments from the user?

Yes. Text typed after the slash command keyword is passed to the Deluge handler as an argument. For example, /invoice 1042 sends the string “1042” to your function, which can then use it to look up a specific record. The handler is responsible for parsing and validating whatever the user passes, so include clear error messaging for unexpected inputs.

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