MAKE, Zapier, or Even simpler?

API & Customization
1

I’ve got an external app that has a webhook interface to send responses. the outcome to simply update a record (will be a single record, by a unique identifier) with the response that comes from the user. Will be very low volume, just want it to be:

  1. Easy (I’m not a coder thus why I’m here at Knack),
  2. Inexpensive
  3. Reliable
    I’m asking about “simpler” in case any of you are already familiar with easy drop-offs to Google Sheets or something, that might take advantage of a built-in capability in Knack without needing all this API stuff exposed to me…
    I bet both apps are known by the community as inexpensive and reliable, but wanted your opinions on which is most simple, and least costly… and any surprises I might be in for??
    Thoughts?
2

Hi @JoeJAZ :wave:

Zapier is known for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical knowledge. Its intuitive design allows users to create “Zaps” (automated workflows) quickly and easily through a straightforward, step-by-step process.

Make.com, on the other hand, offers a more flexible and visually-oriented interface. While it might have a steeper learning curve compared to Zapier, its drag-and-drop editor and modular approach provide greater control and customisation for complex workflows.

Integration and Connectivity

Zapier boasts over 3,000 app integrations, making it one of the most extensive automation platforms available. It supports a wide range of popular apps, ensuring that users can connect almost any tool they use in their daily operations.

Make.com also offers a robust selection of integrations, though its catalog is slightly smaller than Zapier’s. However, it excels in providing detailed, granular control over how these integrations work together, which can be a significant advantage for users with specific automation needs.

Pricing and Plans

Zapier operates on a tiered pricing model, starting with a free plan that includes basic features and up to 100 tasks per month. Its paid plans start from $29.99 per month

Make.com offers a competitive pricing structure, with a free plan that includes up to 1,000 operations and several paid plans starting at $9 per month. This makes it a very cost-effective option for users who need a high volume of operations without breaking the bank.

Advanced Features

Zapier focuses on simplicity and ease of use, which can sometimes limit the complexity of the workflows it can create. While it supports multi-step Zaps and conditional logic, it may not offer the depth of customisation you require.

Make.com shines in its ability to handle intricate and detailed workflows. It supports advanced features such as iterators, routers, and custom functions, allowing you to build highly complex automations. This makes it ideal for tech-savvy users and developers who need a more powerful automation tool.

Conclusion

When choosing between Zapier and Make.com, consider your specific needs and technical expertise. Zapier is perfect for users seeking a straightforward, easy-to-use automation tool with a vast range of integrations. In contrast, Make.com is ideal for those who need a more flexible and powerful platform capable of handling complex workflows. Both tools have their strengths, and your choice will ultimately depend on your particular requirements and comfort level with automation technology.

Personally, and like many of my fellow Knack colleagues, I’m a Make.com evangelist. Like you, I’m not a coder so greatly appreciate these tools removing lots of the complexity around API connections. Linking web apps together is very straightforward in both products.

2 Likes
3

Hi JoeJAZ,

It’s great that you’re looking for an easy, inexpensive, and reliable solution to update records with user responses via a webhook. Given that you’re not a coder and prefer simplicity, here are a couple of options that might work well for you:

1. Using Zapier:

Why Zapier?

  • Easy to Use: Zapier is designed for non-coders, allowing you to create automated workflows (called Zaps) with a user-friendly interface.
  • Inexpensive: While Zapier has premium plans, it also offers a free tier that might be sufficient for low-volume usage.
  • Reliable: Zapier is a well-established platform known for its reliability.

How to Set It Up:

  1. Create a Zap: Sign up for a Zapier account and create a new Zap.
  2. Trigger Event: Set the trigger to be the webhook from your external app. Zapier will provide a URL for the webhook, which you can use in your external app to send the responses.
  3. Action Event: Set the action to update a record in Google Sheets or another database (like Airtable) that Zapier supports.

2. Using Integromat (Make):

Why Integromat?

  • Easy to Use: Similar to Zapier, Integromat has a visual interface that’s friendly for non-coders.
  • Inexpensive: Integromat offers competitive pricing with a free tier that includes a decent number of operations.
  • Reliable: Known for its robust integration capabilities and reliability.

How to Set It Up:

  1. Create a Scenario: Sign up for an Integromat account and create a new scenario.
  2. Trigger Module: Add a Webhooks module to receive data from your external app.
  3. Action Module: Add a Google Sheets module (or another app) to update the record with the data received from the webhook.

Simple Google Sheets Integration with Knack:

If you prefer not to use third-party services like Zapier or Integromat, Knack itself has built-in integrations that might meet your needs:

  1. Knack’s Zapier Integration: Knack has native support for Zapier, which can be set up directly within Knack’s interface.
  2. Knack’s Webhooks: Knack supports webhooks that can trigger updates to records directly within Knack. This might require a bit of initial setup but can be done with minimal coding knowledge.

Final Thoughts:

Both Zapier and Integromat are excellent choices for your needs, with Zapier being slightly more user-friendly for absolute beginners. However, if you’re comfortable exploring Knack’s native capabilities, you might find a direct solution there without the need for additional services. Either way, these options should provide a simple, cost-effective, and reliable solution for updating records based on webhook responses.

Feel free to ask if you need further assistance or a more detailed step-by-step guide for any of these solutions!

Best, Celvin