Messaging module
In-app direct and group chat — for quick coordination that doesn't belong in a public Engage thread.
Messaging is the in-app direct and group chat — for quick coordination that doesn't belong in a public Engage thread.
What this module enables
When Messaging is enabled:
- A Messages sidebar item appears for everyone
- Users can start 1:1 and group conversations
- Read receipts (configurable per user)
- File attachments
- Reactions
Use cases vs. Engage
| Situation | Use… |
|---|---|
| Public chapter discussion | Engage forum |
| Org-wide announcement | Bulletin |
| Quick "are you free Tuesday?" | Messages |
| Officer team coordination | Group chat in Messages |
| Sensitive conversation | Direct message |
| File you want preserved indefinitely | Documents library |
Group chats
Groups can have any number of members (within reason; default cap is 100). Group admins can:
- Add and remove members
- Rename the group
- Promote others to admin
- Delete the group (deletes the conversation for everyone)
Privacy and retention
- Conversations are private — even org admins can't read them by default
- Retention — 12 months default; configurable per org
- Compliance hold — org admins can place a legal hold on specific users' message history (regulated environments)
Cross-org messaging
Users in different orgs cannot message each other. Each org is isolated.
Mobile
Full Messaging works on iOS / Android, with push notifications for new messages.
Walkthroughs
| For | Page |
|---|---|
| Members using Messages | Messages |
Tips for org admins
- Set retention thoughtfully. Too short frustrates users. Too long creates legal exposure.
- Communicate read receipts default. Some users find them stressful; let them know how to disable.
- Don't enable Messaging for chapters that don't want it. Some orgs prefer keeping all comms public in Engage.
Dependencies
- Storage — for attachments
- Notifications — for delivery alerts
- Mobile push — for real-time delivery
Pricing
Messaging is typically included in standard subscription tiers. Confirm with your platform admin.
Related modules
- Community — public alternative
- AI Services — chatbot can summarize a long conversation thread