Builder Rules
Builder Rules
Understanding the builder rules is essential for creating valid and efficient conversational flows. These rules ensure that your flows are structurally correct, can be executed properly, and work seamlessly in a collaborative environment.
Rule Categories
The builder enforces several categories of rules:
- Structural Rules - Required structure for valid flows
- Flow States - Understanding DRAFT, ACTIVE, and ARCHIVED states
- Collaborative Editing - Working in teams with the lock system
- Connection Rules - How nodes can connect to each other
- Variables - Managing flow variables
Quick Validation Reference
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| START node | Exactly one START node is required per flow |
| Outgoing connections | START node must have at least one outgoing connection |
| Incoming connections | All nodes (except START, NOTES, GLOBAL-KEYWORDS) need at least one incoming connection |
| INTERACTIVE nodes | Cannot connect directly to another INTERACTIVE node |
| Self-reference | Nodes cannot connect to themselves |
| Duplicate connections | Same connection between two nodes cannot exist twice |
Common Validation Errors
When building flows, you may encounter validation errors. Here are the most common ones:
Missing START Node
Every flow requires exactly one START node. If you see this error, add a START node to your canvas.
Disconnected Nodes
Nodes without incoming connections (except allowed exceptions) will trigger validation errors. Connect them to the flow or remove them.
Invalid INTERACTIVE Connection
If you try to connect two INTERACTIVE nodes directly, the connection will be rejected. Add a non-interactive node between them.