This document outlines the functionality and characteristics of the Slack Canvas Writer node, which enables creating and sharing formatted documents in Slack channels & threads.

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Channel Access Guide

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Private Channels

To create canvases in private channels, both conditions must be met:
  1. You must be a member of the private channel
  2. The Gumloop bot must be in the channel
Important Notes:
  • Private channels won’t appear in the dropdown if you’re not a member, even if the bot is present
  • For sensitive automation, use your Personal workspace instead of shared workspaces
  • To add the bot, you have two options:
    1. Type /invite @Gumloop in the channel, OR
    2. Click the channel name → Add integrations/Add app → Search for “Gumloop”

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Public Channels

  • All public channels where the Gumloop bot is present will be available
  • Add the bot using either:
    • /invite @Gumloop command in the channel
    • Channel name → Add integrations/Add app → Search for “Gumloop”

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Node Inputs

The Slack Canvas Writer node requires the following inputs:
  • Channel: The Slack channel where the canvas will be posted
  • Canvas Title: The title of your canvas document
  • Canvas Content: The main content of your canvas in markdown format
  • Thread ID (Optional): The thread ID if you’re posting the canvas as a reply
  • Canvas Access Level: The access level granted to members of the channel where the canvas is shared. Options include:
    • Read Only: Members can view the canvas but cannot make changes.
    • Read and Write: Members can both view and edit the canvas.

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Node Output

The Slack Canvas Writer node produces the following output:
  • Canvas Link: A URL linking to the created canvas in Slack

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Node Functionality

The Slack Canvas Writer node creates rich, formatted documents directly in Slack using Slack’s Canvas feature. Key features include:
  • Markdown formatting support
  • Thread reply capabilities
  • Loop Mode support for creating multiple canvases
  • Secure authentication with Gumloop

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When to Use

The Slack Canvas Writer node is particularly valuable when you need to share well-formatted content in Slack. Common use cases include:
  • Documentation: Share process documents or guides
  • Reports: Post formatted reports with proper structure
  • Meeting Notes: Share well-organized meeting summaries
  • Project Updates: Create detailed project status updates
Some specific examples:
  • Weekly status reports
  • Team documentation
  • Training materials
  • Process guidelines

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Example Implementation

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Weekly Status Report

# 🎯 Week 47 Team Update

## Key Achievements
- Launched v2.1 of the API
- Reduced load times by 40%
- Onboarded 3 new enterprise clients

## Project Status

API v2.1
✅ Done - Released on Tuesday

Mobile App
🚧 80% - Testing in progress

Analytics
⏳ 45% - Dependencies blocking

## Next Week's Goals
1. Complete mobile app testing
2. Start analytics dashboard
3. Plan v2.2 features

## Reminders
* Team meeting moved to 2 PM on Tuesday
* Submit expense reports by Friday
* Holiday schedule planning starts next week

## Questions or Issues?
Reach out in the thread below! 👇
Preview in Slack Canvas:

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🎯 Week 47 Team Update

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Key Achievements

  • Launched v2.1 of the API
  • Reduced load times by 40%
  • Onboarded 3 new enterprise clients

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Project Status

API v2.1 ✅ Done - Released on Tuesday Mobile App 🚧 80% - Testing in progress Analytics ⏳ 45% - Dependencies blocking

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Next Week’s Goals

  1. Complete mobile app testing
  2. Start analytics dashboard
  3. Plan v2.2 features

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Reminders

  • Team meeting moved to 2 PM on Tuesday
  • Submit expense reports by Friday
  • Holiday schedule planning starts next week

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Questions or Issues?

Reach out in the thread below! 👇

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Important Considerations

  1. Requires Authentication with Slack - Set up in the Credentials page
  2. When replying to threads, ensure the channel matches the original message
  3. For multiple canvases, utilize Loop Mode
  4. The Gumloop app must be invited to channels where canvases will be posted
  5. Private channels require both user and bot membership for access
  6. Canvas content supports markdown formatting for better organization and readability

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How To Use

  1. Authenticate with your Slack workspace on Gumloop: Go to the Credentials page and link your Slack workspace.
  2. Invite the Gumloop app to your channel: Type /invite @Gumloop in the channel where you want to post canvases.
In summary, the Slack Canvas Writer node enhances team communication by enabling the creation of well-formatted documents directly in Slack, perfect for situations where regular messages aren’t sufficient for complex or structured content.

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