Why use LithoBlocks with low-code platforms
- Simplifies input mapping — Low-code flows map trigger or action data to a single payload; the template defines the message structure. No Block Kit JSON to build in nodes.
- Increases reusability of message structure — One template used across many scenarios and platforms. Same layout and copy; only the data changes.
- Quicker to build and implement — Design the message once in LithoBlocks; low-code flows only pass data. Faster than building blocks in each scenario.
- Handles arrays and outputs array-capable structure — Templates support directives (#each), table blocks, and list-style output. Low-code sends arrays; LithoBlocks renders them. No complex logic in nodes to repeat blocks.
- Version control and updates outside automations — Change templates in LithoBlocks; all flows using that template get the update. No need to edit every Make scenario, Zap, or n8n workflow.
- Democratized message updates — Non-technical users (e.g. comms, marketing) can change copy and layout in LithoBlocks. No need to touch automations or code.
More benefits
- Single source of truth — Message layout and copy live in LithoBlocks; low-code only passes data. One place to update; all entry points (Make, Zapier, n8n, Retool, Airtable) stay in sync.
- Reduced maintenance — No Block Kit JSON duplicated across scenarios or hardcoded in nodes. Update the template once instead of every automation.
- Separation of concerns — Business or comms own message design (templates); ops or developers own triggers and data (low-code). Fewer bottlenecks and clearer ownership.
- Easier testing — Preview and test templates in LithoBlocks with sample data. Low-code flows only need to supply the same data shape; no need to run full scenarios to see message changes.
- Handles complexity in the template — Directives (#each, #if), table blocks, and conditional blocks live in the template. Low-code sends flat or nested data; no complex logic in nodes to build blocks.
- Reusability across platforms — The same template can be used from Make, Zapier, n8n, Retool, and Airtable. One template, many entry points.
- Lower error rate — Valid templates in LithoBlocks reduce malformed Slack messages from hand-built or copied JSON in low-code nodes.
Common pattern
Your flow decides when and what data; LithoBlocks decides how the message looks.- Trigger (e.g. new row, webhook, form submit) in your low-code platform.
- Map data to the shape your template expects (same as sample data).
- HTTP request to LithoBlocks: POST to
/templates/{template_id}/compileor/sendwith the payload. See the API reference. - Slack receives the message (if you use send).
template_id, payload (JSON). Optional: Configure a webhook in LithoBlocks so button or modal interactions in Slack trigger your low-code flow.
Prerequisites
- LithoBlocks API key (from your dashboard → API Keys)
- At least one template (see Quickstart)
- Connecting Slack for your LithoBlocks workspace (required for send)
- Optional: webhook destination if buttons or modals in Slack should trigger your flow
Platform guides
Same pattern in each platform: trigger or action → map data → HTTP request to LithoBlocks (compile or send). Optional: receive LithoBlocks webhooks in your flow.Make
Use LithoBlocks from Make scenarios.
Zapier
Use LithoBlocks from Zaps.
n8n
Use LithoBlocks from n8n workflows.
Airtable
Use LithoBlocks from Airtable automations.
Retool
Use LithoBlocks from Retool apps and workflows.

