Item: Zapier
Rating: 8
Author: Thomas (TC) Riley

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

Zapier is used for our most simple integrations and specifically for those were configuring for clients. Being in charge of all software/tools means that we’re often required to integrate the platforms we provide with the client's existing tech stack. A majority of these use cases are very simple configurations (I.e. converting a chatbot contact submission to a lead in CRM), which Zapier is perfect for. We are easily able to set the client upon a low-cost Zapier plan, make the simple configuration and know it will work.

Zapier is the perfect, affordable tool for simple integrations and triggers.

Pros and Cons

Low cost
Easy configuration
Tons of native integrations
User-friendly

Lack of customization options within integrations
Limited ability to execute outside of the core functionality
Inability to run large-volume integrations at a competitive price point

Return on Investment

Positive impact on setting up isolated client accounts/integrations at scale
Positive impact on the time-savings internally on the configuration of straightforward solutions
Negative impact on our ability to complete more advanced integrations for clients

Alternatives Considered

Integromat

We actually utilize both Integromat and Zapier at our company, for all the reasons detailed in this review. Though Zapier is excellent for simple client integrations, we often run into internal use cases that require complexity that Zapier cannot provide. Specifically working with API calls (not just webhooks), complex multi-step integrations with Routing/parsing/etc, and large volume integrations. Integromat is perfect for these use cases, but doesn’t provide the simplicity and account scalability that Zapier offers.

Key Insights

Do you think Zapier delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Zapier's feature set?

Yes

Did Zapier live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Zapier go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Zapier again?

Yes

Other Software Used

Integromat, MuleSoft Anypoint Platform, IFTTT

Likelihood to Recommend

Zapier is perfect for simple integrations and setting up generally low-volume accounts that require very little configuration and maintenance. For a distributed structure where a client/outside party is responsible for billing, it’s easy to create an account, put them on a low-cost plan, configure a simple integration and teach them how to alter the setup. Its webhook-based setup is perfect for many simple use cases and there’s no reason to use a more complex or expensive solution.

However, if you have integrations that are increasingly complex (involve parsing, multiple non-linear steps, the integration of non-native APIs), significant in overall volume/data or require additional features (time delays for API limits), Zapier likely isn’t your best choice. Other integration platforms offer higher levels of customization and capability, though they’re typically significantly more complex and expensive.

Great at what it’s meant to do, but don’t ask for too much!

Overall Satisfaction with Zapier