Workato vs. Zapier: Choosing the Right Automation Tool

June 5, 2024

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As the integration and automation space gains momentum with AI, it seems like every tool out there is offering every capability, but the truth is that foundational differences between platforms are still key, and knowing the differences can make or break your workflows and applications. 

Zapier is a popular automation platform that offers user friendly automations, similar to Workato, but a closer comparison reveals key differences. Here we break down 6 differences between Zapier and Workato to help you better choose the right tool for your business.

What’s the difference between Zapier and Workato?

Connectivity

Zapier offers limited connectivity with a small list of applications and actions. These can work well for more simple automations. Workato connects to over 2000 applications and offers support for most key actions. Plus, Workato supports all major standards like CSV, HTTP, On-Prem needs, JSON, XML and YAML. No automation is too specific and no platform requirement too complex for us to connect and streamline.

Customer Success

When it comes to automating systems and workflows, customer support and success is integral. We know that when workflows break, business outcomes are on the line. Zapier relies on online documentation and email support with a response time that can be 3-4 days. Workato has in-browser live chat and offers immediate specialist support. We also offer access to architects and in-house specialists for complex issues.

Business Critical Automations

There are automations that make life easier, and there are automations that are critical to the functioning of the business. When it comes to business critical automations, Zapier’s platform requires manual execution of missed events when a workflow is stopped and restarted. Workato listens for trigger events in the background and executes on all missed events upon restart so systems run smoothly faster.

Action Volumes

Zapier operates on a row-by-row basis, which can lead to a linear increase in tasks with volume growth. Workato supports batch actions and can significantly reduce task count, offering better scalability. After all, we want your business to grow as much as you do.

Future Proofing

As automations and AI become more central to operations, it’s never been more important to future proof. Custom code can come back to bite you. Zapier relies more heavily on custom coding for unsupported actions which can muck up tech stack changes and cloud execution on future needs. Workato allows users to execute any action within any application through various connection interfaces and integration standards that won’t change. 

Data Management and Process Automation at Scale

Workato can handle complex processes and eliminate app hopping with workbots that offer seamless approval workflows, clear audit trails, and super easy process control and flexibility.

Zapier offers universal connectivity for pervasive integrations like Workato does, but doesn’t offer support for many of the most popular large enterprise apps, ERP systems, and databases.

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Workato vs Zapier

Workato is an enterprise-level automation tool offering extensive app integration, advanced customer support, and robust automation capabilities for complex workflows. Zapier, while user-friendly, caters more to SMBs with simpler automations, limited app connections, and less need for immediate support. Make sure you choose the right tool both for your immediate business needs, and also for the future you envision for your organization.