PHLO for Messaging

Frequently asked questions about using PHLO (Plivo High Level Objects) for SMS workflows.

What is PHLO?

PHLO provides a visual workflow builder for messaging automation without writing code. Common use cases include:

Forwarding incoming SMS to another number
Auto-responding to inbound messages
Tracking outbound message delivery status

How can I forward messages to Plivo numbers using PHLO?

Create a new PHLO
Add a Send SMS node connected to Incoming SMS in the start node
Rename the node (e.g., “Forward_SMS”)
Configure the node:

Field	Value
From	`{{Start.message.from}}` (dynamic) or a valid Plivo number (static)
To	Your destination number
Message	`{{Start.message.text}}` (forwards original message)

Click Validate to save
Click Save
Attach the PHLO to an SMS-enabled Plivo number

Note: Using {{Start.message.from}} takes the actual source from the received message. If the source is a short code not rented in your account, forwarding will fail. Using a Plivo number in the From field is recommended.

How do I set up an autoresponder for inbound SMS?

Create a new PHLO
Connect a Send SMS node to Incoming SMS in the start node
Configure the node:

Field	Value
From	`{{Start.message.to}}` (the Plivo number that received the message)
To	`{{Start.message.from}}` (the sender’s number)
Message	Your auto-reply text

Click Validate and Save
Attach the PHLO to your Plivo number

See Getting Started with SMS Autoresponder for detailed configuration.

How do I receive message details for an outbound SMS?

Use the Event Callbacks option in the Send SMS component:

In your PHLO, select the Send SMS component
Locate the Event Callbacks option
Add your callback URL
Select which message states to receive callbacks for

Available Status Events

Status	Description
queued	Message accepted, waiting to send
sent	Message sent to carrier
delivered	Confirmed delivery to recipient
undelivered	Failed to deliver
failed	Error occurred before sending

Each selected status triggers a callback to your URL with message details.

What variables can I use in PHLO for messaging?

Inbound Message Variables

Variable	Description
`{{Start.message.from}}`	Sender’s phone number
`{{Start.message.to}}`	Plivo number that received the message
`{{Start.message.text}}`	Message content

Variables can be used in any text field within PHLO nodes including message content, From/To fields, and callback URLs.

How do I attach a PHLO to a phone number?

Via Phone Number:

Navigate to Phone Numbers > Active
Click on your phone number
Select PHLO for Application Type
Choose your PHLO from the dropdown
Click Update

Via Powerpack:

Navigate to your Powerpack
In Application Configuration, select PHLO
Select your PHLO application
Update

​What is PHLO?

​How can I forward messages to Plivo numbers using PHLO?

​How do I set up an autoresponder for inbound SMS?

​How do I receive message details for an outbound SMS?

​Available Status Events

​What variables can I use in PHLO for messaging?

​Inbound Message Variables

​How do I attach a PHLO to a phone number?

​Related Resources