What is the Distribution List, and what happens if I remove it?

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Understanding Attribute Logic: How Filters Define Your Recipient List

When configuring your recipient list under “Distribution,” it’s important to understand how attribute filters work to ensure your survey reaches precisely the right employees. The attributes you uploaded—such as department, team, or location—serve as defining criteria for your survey’s audience. Important Note on Attribute Linking: If you select multiple attributes (for example, “Department” and “Location”), they are always connected by an AND logic. This means that only employees who match all the selected criteria at once will be included in your recipient list. Within a single attribute, you can select multiple values (e.g., both “Berlin” and “Hamburg” locations); in this case, these choices are joined by OR logic—employees meeting at least one selected value are included. Example 1: If you only want to survey the group working in the HR role, go to “Distribution,” select the “Department” attribute, and then click on “HR.” This will look as follows. When you activate the survey, only employees who have the “HR” attribute assigned will be invited. This allows you to target specific groups with relevant surveys. Example 2: If you want to survey employees who work both in the “HR” department and at the “Berlin” location, select “Department: HR” as well as “Location: Berlin” as your filters. Now, only those employees who fulfill both criteria simultaneously will appear on your recipient list. If you see fewer recipients than expected (for example, just three employees), this is due to this AND logic—only those who meet both selected criteria are included. Tip: Before sending your survey, always review your displayed recipient list under “Distribution.” If the recipient count is not as planned, check your selected filters—sometimes an extra selection can unintentionally exclude people.

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What happens if I accidentally delete the recipient list during an active survey?

If the recipient list is deleted during an active survey, it’s not a significant issue; the feedback already collected is saved in the system. People who haven’t yet participated in the survey but wish to do so will receive a notification explaining why they cannot currently participate. You can re-add the recipient list in this case, and individuals will be able to participate in the survey until the scheduled end date. If you add new individuals during an active survey, they will be invited to participate through the reminder function.

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Summary

This clarity ensures your surveys reach the intended employee groups—and no one is unnecessarily left out. If you have further questions, your Customer Success Manager is available at service@honestly.com or via Zoom. Our AI agent Frank is also ready to assist you directly in your Honestly account.