by Dorottya Dvorak 
Automation Rules are one of the most powerful tools in Account Engagement (Pardot). Whether that is your lead management or opt-in process, this tool is essential to keep everything working. However, as of the Summer ’23 Release, real-time automation rules will become a thing of the past.
You might ask, what are real-time automation rules and why is this happening?
Well, real-time is an optional setting on automation rules for older accounts. When enabled, the actions set on the rule immediately follow prospect updates, rather than in batches as normal. As this could affect the loading of your other assets, the following warning from Salesforce reminds you of the consequences:
“We recommend against running automation rules in real time unless the action is very time sensitive. Intensive, real-time rules could cause slower load times for forms and landing pages. Rules not running in real time will be processed in batches regularly.”
Even though we also advise our customers to use it carefully, there were times when this setting was useful. For example, any time when imminent action was required, such as with consent management processes. In addition, it was a great way to prioritize certain automation rules above others, such as lead assignments.
But Salesforce decided to retire this setting as recently released features now provide a safer solution. Once the Summer ’23 Release is out, the real-time setting will no longer be available on new and existing automation rules.
Zoe Fisher
Principal Marketing Automation Consultant
Looking for help with Account Engagement?
So what is next?
Well, take a look at your account and review if you are using the real-time feature. You can do that by using the filter on automation rules:
But fear not, though the real-time setting will be gone, there are other ways to benefit from automation rules. Get some inspiration from our blog post, Ways You Can Use Pardot Automation Rules. And if you want any further advice, get in touch with our expert team.