Go to External URL

The Go to External URL action adds a button that opens an external website or resource in a new tab when clicked. You can set a fixed URL, or build a dynamic URL that includes values from the current record's fields - for example, inserting an address into a Google Maps link. This is useful for connecting your app's records to related resources that live outside Engine Awesome.

When to use it

Linking to a client's website from their contact or company record.
Opening a Google Maps link for a location record's address.
Linking to a support ticket in an external helpdesk system like Zendesk or Freshdesk.
Opening a record's related document in Google Drive or Dropbox.
Linking to a product listing on your online store from an inventory record.
Pointing to reference documentation or a third-party resource relevant to a record.

How to configure it

Open the layout editor for the layout where you want the button.
Click Add Block in the desired position.
Select Action from the block type list.
Choose Go to External URL from the action options.
Enter the URL . For a fixed link, paste the full URL (e.g. https://maps.google.com ). For a dynamic link, use the field value placeholder syntax to insert record data into the URL.
Set the button label to something descriptive, like "View on Google Maps" or "Open Website".
Save and publish your layout.

Dynamic URLs let you build links using field values. For example, you can construct a Google Maps URL that automatically includes the address from the current record, so every location record gets its own correct map link.

Example

You track service locations in Engine Awesome, with each location record storing a street address, city, and zip code. On the location detail layout, you add a View on Google Maps button using the Go to External URL action. The URL is constructed dynamically using the address fields from the record, forming a valid Google Maps search URL. When a technician opens a location record before heading out for a job, they click the button and Google Maps opens in a new tab with the address already entered - ready to navigate.

Tips

External URLs always open in a new tab, so users don't lose their place in the app.
Always include https:// at the start of your URL - links without a protocol may not work correctly.
Test your URL after saving the layout, especially if you're using dynamic field values, to make sure the link resolves correctly.