Smart Shortlinks Glossary
Everything you need to know about smart shortlinks, URL automation, and the terms behind Roo's features.
Smart Shortlink
A smart shortlink (also called a 'roorl') is a shortened URL that carries built-in logic. Unlike traditional short links that simply redirect from A to B, a smart shortlink can change its destination based on rules you define — such as time schedules, click counts, or custom conditions — and can trigger webhooks on every click.
Scheduled Redirect
A scheduled redirect is a feature that automatically changes where a shortlink points based on a date and time you set. For example, before a webinar the link goes to a registration page, during the event it points to the live stream, and afterward it redirects to the recording. No manual intervention is needed — Roo handles the switch automatically.
Click-Count Redirect
Click-count redirect (also called click-count-based routing) changes the destination URL of a shortlink after a specified number of clicks. For instance, the first 50 clickers see a special offer, and everyone after that sees a different page. It's ideal for scarcity-based campaigns, limited-time offers, or automatic A/B testing cutoffs.
Webhook
A webhook is an HTTP callback that fires automatically when a specific event occurs. In Roo, you can attach a webhook to any shortlink so that every time someone clicks it, Roo sends real-time click data (including IP, user agent, referrer, and custom metadata) to any endpoint you specify — such as a CRM, analytics tool, or automation platform like Make.
Custom Domain
A custom domain lets you use your own branded domain (e.g., go.yourbrand.com) instead of roo.bz for your shortlinks. This gives your links a professional, trustworthy appearance and reinforces your brand. Every Roo plan includes at least one custom domain. Setup involves adding CNAME records in your DNS provider.
Dynamic Querystring Metadata
Dynamic Querystring Metadata allows you to append parameters to your shortlink (e.g., ?source=email&campaign=spring) and Roo automatically passes them to both the destination URL and any configured webhooks. This enables advanced tracking and personalization without modifying the shortlink itself. Available on Spring and Enterprise plans.
QR Code (Smart QR)
A smart QR code generated by Roo inherits all the intelligence of its underlying shortlink — scheduled redirects, click-count logic, webhook triggers, and custom domain branding. This means your printed materials, packaging, or signage can be as dynamic and trackable as your digital campaigns.
Roorl
A 'roorl' is the informal name for a Roo smart shortlink. It's a URL shortened and enhanced by Roo with features like scheduled redirects, click-count routing, webhook triggers, and custom domain support. Every roorl is both a redirect tool and an automation component.
Addon Activation
An addon activation is a use of one of Roo's advanced features: webhooks, scheduled redirects, or click-count redirects. Each plan includes a certain number of addon activations — the free Hop plan has 50 lifetime activations, Skip has 1,000/month, and Leap and above are unlimited.
Bulk Upload
Bulk upload lets you create many smart shortlinks at once by uploading a list of destination URLs. Each link can include all of Roo's smart features — scheduled redirects, webhooks, click-count routing, and custom domains. Available via the dashboard and the Make.com app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a smart shortlink and a regular short link?
A regular short link simply redirects from a short URL to a long URL. A smart shortlink (like Roo's) adds built-in logic — it can change destinations based on time schedules or click counts, fire webhooks on every click, and integrate with automation platforms.
Do I need to know how to code to use smart shortlinks?
No! Roo is built for no-code and low-code professionals. All features — scheduled redirects, click-count routing, webhooks, and integrations with Make — are configured through the dashboard or no-code apps. Our n8n nodes and Zapier app are coming soon!
How are smart shortlinks used in business automation?
Smart shortlinks replace manual link management in automation workflows. Instead of building complex routing logic in Make or n8n, you set the rules once in Roo and the link handles the rest — changing destinations, firing webhooks, and tracking clicks automatically.
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