Question:

Why does a workflow token in a message template not work properly in Vault?

Answer:

For workflow tokens to work properly in a message, the tokens must be used directly within a workflow and set to the corresponding step type. Workflow tokens will not work properly if they are in any lifecycle actions like a state's entry actions. If the workflow token is not properly aligned to the correct workflow step type, it will resolve as a blank in the message. 

For example, the token ${taskInstructionsByInitiator}, has the word "task" in it, thus it must be in a document or object message that is assigned to a task step to work properly. If the workflow doesn't have any task steps, it will not work properly. 

Related Documentation:

Vault Help Documentation: Email & Messages Administration