What alternative approach can I take to resolve the issue with my multi-reference field in Webflow that is causing my Zap to occasionally not work?

A problematic multi-reference field in Webflow CMS can cause Zaps (in Zapier) to intermittently fail, especially when the referenced data is incomplete, missing, or returned in an unexpected format. Here's how to work around it:

1. Check for Missing Data in Multi-Reference Fields

• Multi-reference fields can return an array of linked items, and if any of the referenced items are deleted or unpublished, the API call used by Zapier may fail.
• In the Webflow CMS, go to the affected Collection and ensure that all items referenced in multi-reference fields are published and not in a draft or archived state.

2. Avoid Using Multi-Reference in Zaps If Unstable

• Multi-reference fields in Webflow can cause issues in Webhooks because Zapier might not always retrieve the full object if it's nesting multiple IDs.
• Instead of directly using multi-reference data in a Zap, you can:
• Store critical related info as plain fields (like text or single references) that are easier to access consistently.
• Use a separate Collection with single references to simulate many-to-many relationships more reliably.

3. Use Webhooks + Webflow API

• For more control, bypass Zapier's Webflow integration:
• Trigger a Zap via webhook (e.g., from a form submission).
• Use Zapier’s Webhooks → Custom Request action to get full CMS item data from Webflow’s API, which may include full expanded reference fields if needed.
• Parse the returned JSON manually within Zapier to handle the multi-reference data.

4. Flatten Multi-Reference Data in Webflow

• If you're using a Zap to send data (e.g., to Airtable or email), you can:
• Create a text field in your Webflow CMS where you concatenate the relevant values from the multi-reference (via automation or manual entry).
• Use that pre-formatted text field in your Zap to avoid having to parse arrays.

5. Use a Middleware Tool Like Make (Integromat)

• Unlike Zapier, Make allows for more granular parsing of Webflow's data structure.
• You can use Make to:
• Handle multi-reference arrays explicitly.
• Loop through each item if needed.
• Flatten or transform the data more flexibly before passing it on.

6. Delay or Retry the Zap if Needed

• Sometimes your Zap fails because the referenced data hasn’t finished publishing.
• Use a "Delay" step in Zapier or Zapier’s built-in error handling (like auto-retry upon failure).

Summary

To resolve Zapier issues caused by a multi-reference field in Webflow, consider replacing or flattening the field, validating reference data, using Webflow’s API directly, or leveraging middleware tools like Make for better parsing. These methods offer increased stability and reliability when dealing with complex CMS relationships.