This article explains the four template options available in Messages XR Enterprise for creating newsletter-style emails: drag-and-drop templates, Saved messages templates, Smore newsletters, and the legacy toolbar template.
💡Quick answers
- What are the four template options in Messages XR Enterprise? The options are drag-and-drop editor templates from the Templates tab, templates from the Saved messages area, Smore newsletters, and the legacy template button from the editing toolbar.
- Which template option is recommended for consistent branded communications? The drag-and-drop editor in the Templates tab is the most highly recommended - it supports code-free design, mobile-friendly previews, and reusable branded layouts.
- Is the legacy toolbar template option still supported? No, the legacy toolbar template option will soon no longer be supported - Finalsite recommends switching to the drag-and-drop editor.
- Where do I access drag-and-drop templates when composing a message? Click the Additional Email Templates button in the Email channel or go to the Templates tab in the Messages area.
- Can Smore newsletters be inserted into an email message? Yes, click the Smore button in the editing toolbar to insert a previously created Smore newsletter into the email body.
Four template options
- Option #1: Drag-and-drop editor templates in the Templates tab: Our most highly recommended option is to utilize the built-in drag-and-drop editor that allows you to set a consistent design for all of your messages, so readers know where to find information and stay engaged!
- Option #2: Template from Saved messages: Insert a variety of pre-made templates that can be managed in the Library tab.
- Option #3: Smore newsletters: Click the Smore button in the editing toolbar to insert previously-created Smore newsletters into your email body.
- Option #4: Template button from the editing toolbar: This is our legacy option that will soon no longer be supported. For best results, select Option #1: Drag-and-drop editor in the Templates tab. This legacy option inserts a type of frame or structure into the email body, in which you will then insert your content. These are built into the system and are rarely used.
Option #1: Drag-and-drop editor in the Templates tab
The drag-and-drop editor helps users quickly create beautiful, responsive emails and newsletters that are easy for families and staff to read on any device. With drag-and-drop design, ability to insert logos and headers for consistent school and district branding, you can build, collaborate, and launch polished campaigns in minutes.
Here are a few reasons why admins love this option:
- Easy, code-free design: Build professional emails with drag-and-drop tools. No HTML is required, and no design experience is needed.
- Consistent branding and layout: Maintain a unified look across all communications with reusable templates that reflect your school’s identity.
- Real-time, mobile-friendly previews: See your design as you build it, and ensure it looks great on any device.
- Streamlined messaging: Templates help reduce errors and guarantee key info—like contact details or unsubscribe links—is always included.
- Empowerment across departments: Staff can create tailored messages for academics, athletics, or district-wide updates without relying on IT or marketing teams.
Click on the Templates tab in the Messages area to view existing templates, or create new ones.
You can insert templates that are ready to go by using the Additional Email templates button in the Email channel.
- the Additional Email templates button in the Email channel
- the Templates tab in the Messages area
Option #2: Insert template from Saved messages
Another place where you can find templates is your Saved messages button. Click here to see folders of templates and saved messages that can be inserted into your email body.
- Some of these templates may be unsent messages created by you, mostly living in the Drafts folder unless you have moved them elsewhere.
- Other templates are system, built-in pre-made messages for use in certain scenarios.
- Each template will have an icon next to it, helping you understand where it came from:
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People icon: Created by you; editable by you.
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Lock icon: A built-in, system message that is not editable, is hard-coded, and cannot be modified at all.
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- Learn more about how to manage the messages and templates that live in Saved messages in the article, “Manage your messages in the Messages area > Library tab.”
- Want to hide some of these messages to clean up a bit? Check out the article, "Manage message visibility for pre-made messages."
Here's how to insert Saved message into an email:
- Did you already insert text into the Content area? If so, clear the text out so that the template can insert into a clean workspace.
- Click the Saved messages button.
- Browse and select a saved message that will be inserted into the Content area.
- Continue to adjust the messaging in your other channels.
Option #3: Insert a previously created Smore newsletter
Smore is a third-party newsletter builder that has an integration with Messages XR Enterprise, helping anyone create great flyers and newsletters. Use the Smore email templates to send out newsletters in the Messages area.
For best results, we suggest using Option #1. The built-in drag-and-drop templates that can be accessed through the Additional Email templates button offer extensive options and customization not found in the Smore newsletter. Best part? They're free and included with your Messages XR Enterprise account!
Smore account info
Not familiar with Smore? Visit the Smore website to learn more. If this is your first time using Smore, Smore creates an account for you using your Communications reply-to email address. This account is the trial version of Smore and will allow you to send up to 10 newsletters without upgrading to a paid account. This is a unique benefit for users that want to test Smore in their districts and schools.
- If you already have a smore account, it may sync with your Communications account.
- Smore compares your Communications account reply-to email address to the emails in their database.
- If the emails match, the accounts sync.
- If the emails don't match, you need to contact Smore support to have your accounts synced.
Send a Smore
In the Email area, click the Smore button to open up the selection window.
- Once you’ve selected a previously-created Smore newsletter, click Use to insert this newsletter into your workspace.
- A Newsletter preview will open. Access the Smore website to make any necessary edits or modifications.
- Finish constructing the message with all options, then click Send message to share your Smore with your recipients.
Learn more and find Smore FAQs in the article, “Send Smore newsletters + FAQs.”
Option #4: Insert template from toolbar
The Template button in the editing toolbar allows you to choose a built-in newsletter template that will be inserted into the body of your email.
Legacy Option
This is a legacy option that will soon no longer be supported. For best results, select Option #1: Drag-and-drop editor in the Templates tab.
To learn more about how the Insert Email Template button in your toolbar works, check out the article, "Insert template from the toolbar."