---
title: How do variables work in workflows?
description: "Variables store data for the journey. **Variable Management** (Settings) defines **Local** (per session), **Global** (across sessions for that user/workflow), and **Constant** (fixed) variables. **System** and **Data Profile** are built-in and read-only. In node config and API Management you insert variables with the format `{{local:Name}}`, `{{global:Name}}`, `{{constant:Name}}`, `{{system:Name}}`, `{{dataprofile:Name}}`. Use the **Insert variable** row or `` picker in text fields. The engine…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-variables-work-in-workflows/"
updated: "2026-03-06"
category: WhatsApp Business API / Workflow Builder
---

# How do variables work in workflows?

Variables store data for the journey. **Variable Management** (Settings) defines **Local** (per session), **Global** (across sessions for that user/workflow), and **Constant** (fixed) variables. **System** and **Data Profile** are built-in and read-only. In node config and API Management you insert variables with the format `{{local:Name}}`, `{{global:Name}}`, `{{constant:Name}}`, `{{system:Name}}`, `{{dataprofile:Name}}`. Use the **Insert variable** row or `</>` picker in text fields. The engine resolves these at runtime; **Variable state** (Settings) shows current global values without changing workflow JSON.

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