Due to Google Workspace API restrictions, CloudM Automate is prevented from overriding certain signature defaults if they have been manually defined by a user. This ensures that user-defined content is not unintentionally overwritten by third-party applications.
Signature Sync Logic
The following table outlines how CloudM Automate applies signature defaults based on the user's current Gmail configuration:
| Scenario | For New Emails Use | On Reply/Forward Use |
|---|---|---|
| No existing signatures present | Set to Automate Signature | Set to Automate Signature |
| Existing manual signatures present | Set to Automate Signature | No Change (User Defined) |
FAQs & Watchpoints
WATCHPOINT: Reply/Forward Signature Override Limitation
There is a known limitation within the Gmail API regarding the On Reply/Forward Use setting. If a user has already manually configured a signature for replies or forwards, CloudM Automate cannot override this specific selection.
This results in branding inconsistencies where the synchronized signature appears on new emails, but the user's legacy signature remains active for threaded replies. Currently, the Gmail API does not permit a forced override of this field if it is already populated by a user-defined value.
Administrative Workaround (GAM)
If you require a consistent signature across all correspondence for users who already have manual signatures set, you must programmatically clear the existing settings before performing a CloudM Automate sync. This is considered an advanced administrative action.
Using GAM (Google Apps Manager), administrators can reset the signature settings to a blank state. By deleting the existing signature objects via the API, the "User Defined" status is effectively cleared.
The Process:
Use GAM to delete all existing signatures for the target user(s).
Once the signatures are deleted, the Gmail "Reply/Forward" default returns to a null state.
Perform a CloudM Automate sync.
CloudM Automate will detect no existing signatures and will successfully set both the "New Email" and "Reply/Forward" defaults to the newly synced signature.
Note: Clearing signatures via GAM is destructive. Any personal signatures created by users will be permanently removed. This should only be performed after internal communication with your users.