When building a workflow, there are several options for adding actions. But since no one wants to send out an entire email sequence all at once, you'll need to use the delay action to control the pace of activity.
To add a delay to any workflow step, click on the "Add an action" button.
This will bring up the Action Details form. Select "Delay" from the drop-down list to set the type.
This will display a new field, asking how many days you would like to delay between actions. Enter a number and then click on "Save Action" to add the action to your workflow step.
Delays can only be set in a whole number of days (no delaying for 2.64 days).
The key to managing delays successfully is to understand that with Virtuous Automation, you control the pace at which things occur, but not necessarily the schedule. For example, a particular workflow step may be designed to send out a thank-you to new monthly donors. There is no way to know when a donor may choose to give a monthly recurring Gift, so a giver may be enrolled in the workflow at any time.
Once they are enrolled, delays allow you to control the pace at which actions will occur. Especially with emails and tasks, make sure to allow adequate time between each action for tasks to be completed and for recipients to respond to your communication. We do NOT recommend starting a workflow with a delay. This is because the delay countdown begins on initial enrollment- not when the workflow is started.