Messages XRE: Creating a Dynamic Group

Step-by-step instructions for creating a dynamic staff group in Messages XR.

Supporting Video

Part 1: Initial Group Creation

  1. Start the Group: Click Create Group in the top right corner.
  2. Name the Group: Enter a clear name (e.g., "All NBHS Employees").
  3. Set School: Select the specific school (e.g., New Britain High School).
  4. Set Privacy: Ensure this is set to Public (Private restricts it to just you).
  5. Select Method: Choose Advanced (do not use "Build a list" or "Use a file").

Part 2: Configuring the Query

  1. Set School Criteria: Under the "School" field, check the specific school box again (e.g., New Britain High School).
  2. Set Account Types:
    • Click Accounts.
    • Click Select All first.
    • Deselect the following non-staff groups:
      • Community Members
      • Students
      • Parents
      • Observers
    • Note: Do not rely on the generic "Staff" button as it often excludes teachers.
  3. Verify: Click Search. Ensure the member count looks accurate (e.g., 367 members) and spot-check the names.
  4. Create: Click the Create button to finalize the initial group.

Part 3: Sharing Access & Fixing the "Static List" Bug

The audio notes a glitch where adding specific users converts your dynamic "Query" into a static "List." Follow these steps to share the group while keeping it dynamic.

  1. Open Settings: Click Access Settings at the bottom of the group page.
  2. Add Users: Search for and add the specific individuals who need access to use this group (e.g., Admins, Principals).
  3. Check the Group Type: Look at the "Group Members" section. If it displays a static number (e.g., "367") instead of the word "Query," the dynamic function has broken.
  4. The Workaround (Re-apply the Query):
    • Go back up to Group Members.
    • Select Advanced.
    • Re-enter the criteria from Part 2 (Select the School; Select All Accounts and remove Students/Parents/Observers).
    • Click Search again to refresh the view.
  5. Final Save: Once the criteria are re-entered and the view is refreshed, click Save.
    • Result: The specific users will still have access, but the group will return to Query Mode (updating automatically) rather than remaining a static list