Native Meta/Facebook Integration (Lead Ingestion + Conversions API)
R
Ryan Jevning
"As we shift to Meta's (Facebook) new AI-driven ad targeting ('Andromeda'), it is critical that our CRM has a bi-directional integration with Meta Ads Manager.
The Request:
Direct Lead Ingestion: Native ability to parse Facebook Instant Forms into ADF/XML without requiring a paid third-party tool like LeadsBridge.
Conversions API (CAPI) Support: The ability to send 'Offline Events' (e.g., 'Sold', 'Appointment Set') back to Meta automatically.
Why this matters: Without sending sales data back to Facebook, the ad algorithms cannot optimize for buyers, only clickers. We are currently forced to pay for middleware (LeadsBridge) or lose significant ad efficiency. This is becoming a standard feature in other automotive CRMs."
Shelby Parker
Thank you for posting, Ryan Jevning! I have a few more questions for you:
- What specific data fields from Facebook Instant Forms are most critical for your dealership's CRM needs?
- How frequently do you anticipate needing to update or sync data between the CRM and Meta Ads Manager?
- Are there any specific offline events, beyond 'Sold' and 'Appointment Set', that you would like to track and send back to Meta?
R
Ryan Jevning
Shelby Parker
Hi Shelby, thanks for looking into this! To answer your questions based on the new Meta "Conversion Leads" requirements:
- Critical Data Fields (Ingestion): Beyond the standard contact info (First Name, Last Name, Email, Phone), we absolutely need:
Facebook Lead ID: This is the most critical field. We need to store this unique ID in DriveCentric so we can match the customer back to Facebook later for the conversion signal.
Custom Form Questions: We use qualifying questions in our forms (e.g., "When are you looking to buy?" and "Do you have a trade-in?"). These need to map to the Notes or specific fields in the CRM so sales reps can prioritize hot leads.
Ad/Campaign Names: Helpful for immediate context on which vehicle they looked at.
- Frequency of Sync:
Inbound (Leads to CRM): This must be Real-Time (Instant). In automotive, a 5-minute delay can cost us the customer.
Outbound (CRM to Meta): Ideally Real-Time, but a Daily Sync (every 24 hours) is acceptable for the "Offline Events" upload. The sooner the algorithm gets the data, the faster it optimizes our ad spend.
- Specific Offline Events (Feedback Loop): Beyond "Sold" and "Appointment Set," we strongly request tracking for:
Appointment Show: This is a massive quality signal. "Set" is good, but "Show" tells the algorithm who actually visits the dealership.
Credit Pulled / Deal Pending: This signals high intent even if the car isn't technically "Sold" yet.
Bad/Invalid Lead: We want to signal back if a number is disconnected so the algorithm stops finding people like that.
The goal is to move away from "Cost per Lead" and optimize for "Cost per Sale."
Thanks!