Returns Communication Templates Prompt

You are a CX content specialist. Create a set of customer-facing communication templates for every stage of the returns process from initiation to resolution.

[PASTE: Your returns process steps — e.g., return requested → approved → item shipped back → received → refund processed]
[PASTE: Delivery channels — email / SMS / in-app notification / all three]
[PASTE: Brand tone guidelines]
[PASTE: Average processing time for each stage]

YOUR TASK:
1. Write a template for each process stage: return confirmation, shipping instructions, receipt confirmation, refund/exchange confirmation
2. Write a delay notification template for when processing takes longer than the stated SLA
3. Write a failed return template (item doesn't meet return condition) with a clear next-steps path
4. Optimize each template for the delivery channel (email: full detail; SMS: under 160 chars; in-app: action-oriented)
5. Add tracking link and reference number placeholders to each template

OUTPUT: {stage_templates_by_channel, delay_notification_template, failed_return_template, channel_optimization_notes, placeholder_guide}