Summary

IFTTT, which stands for “If This Then That,” is a web-based service that allows users to create automated tasks or “applets” by connecting different devices, apps, and services. The platform was founded in 2010 by Linden Tibbets and Jesse Tane and has since gained popularity for its ability to simplify everyday tasks through automation.

IFTTT offers a wide range of products and services, including applets for social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, smart home devices like Philips Hue and Nest, productivity tools like Google Drive and Slack, and much more. Users can create their own applets or browse and use pre-made ones from the IFTTT community.

Overall, IFTTT offers a convenient and easy-to-use solution for streamlining workflows and connecting various digital tools and devices in a seamless way.

The Details

IFTTT offers a variety of solutions and tools for AI, smart home, social media, lead management, productivity, customer communications, lifestyle, and students. Some specific examples include:

  1. Social Media Integration: IFTTT allows users to create applets that automate tasks on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and more. For example, a user can create an applet that automatically posts their Instagram photos to their Twitter account.
  2. Smart Home Automation: IFTTT offers applets for connecting and controlling smart home devices like lights, thermostats, security cameras, and more. For instance, a user can create an applet that turns on their Philips Hue lights when their Nest thermostat detects that they are home.
  3. Productivity Tools: Users can create applets to streamline tasks in productivity tools like Google Drive, Slack, Trello, and more. For example, a user can create an applet that automatically saves email attachments to a specific folder in Google Drive.
  4. Health and Fitness Tracking: IFTTT offers applets for integrating health and fitness tracking devices like Fitbit, Apple Health, and MyFitnessPal. For instance, a user can create an applet that logs their daily step count from their Fitbit to a Google Sheet.
  5. Weather Alerts: Users can create applets that provide weather alerts based on their location using services like Weather Underground or the National Weather Service. For example, a user can create an applet that sends them a notification if it is going to rain the next day.

What We Like (Because We Use It)

We use IFTTT in a number of different use cases from social media automation, to general productivity enhancements. Some of the main features and solutions that we like include:

  1. Automation of tasks: Users can create applets that automate tasks by triggering actions based on certain conditions. For example, you can set up an applet to automatically post your Instagram photos to Twitter.
  2. Integration with a wide range of services: IFTTT supports integration with popular apps and services, allowing users to connect and synchronize their digital tools effortlessly.
  3. Customization options: Users have the flexibility to create their own applets tailored to their specific needs or explore and use pre-made applets from the IFTTT community.
  4. Streamlining workflows: IFTTT helps users streamline their workflows by automating repetitive tasks and connecting various devices and services in a seamless manner.

You Might Not Like

Despite being a platform built for ease of use, there are still plenty of things to consider when choosing to begin your automation journey. Some struggles you might encounter with IFTTT include:

  1. Limited functionality: While IFTTT offers a wide range of applets and services, some users may find that the platform lacks certain advanced functionalities that can be found in more specialized automation tools.
  2. Complexity for beginners: Setting up and customizing applets on IFTTT can be confusing for beginners, especially those who are not tech-savvy. Users may struggle to understand how to create and manage applets effectively.
  3. Reliability issues: Some users have reported experiencing occasional delays or failures in the execution of applets on IFTTT. This can be frustrating for users who rely on the platform for automated tasks.
  4. Privacy concerns: When users connect multiple apps and services through IFTTT, they may inadvertently share personal data and information across platforms. This raises concerns about data privacy and security.
  5. Dependency on third-party services: IFTTT relies on third-party services and APIs to function, which means that any changes or disruptions to these services can impact the reliability and performance of the platform.
  6. Limited customization options: While users can create their own applets on IFTTT, the customization options may be limited compared to more advanced automation tools. Users may find it challenging to create complex or highly specific applets.
  7. Cost considerations: While IFTTT offers a free version of its platform, some advanced features and services may require a subscription or payment. Users should consider the cost implications before investing in these additional features.

Comparison

IFTTT’s primary competitor is Zapier. Zapier is also a web-based automation tool that allows users to connect different apps and services to create automated workflows, similar to IFTTT.

Here is a detailed comparison between IFTTT and Zapier:

Integration and Compatibility

  • IFTTT: IFTTT supports integration with a wide range of services and apps, including social media platforms, smart home devices, productivity tools, and more. Users can easily connect and synchronize their digital tools through applets.
  • Zapier: Zapier also offers integration with a vast number of apps and services, allowing users to create automated workflows between different platforms. Zapier has over 2,000 integrations available for users to choose from.

Customization Options

  • IFTTT: IFTTT provides users with the flexibility to create their own applets tailored to their specific needs or use pre-made applets from the IFTTT community. Users can customize triggers and actions to automate tasks based on certain conditions.
  • Zapier: Zapier offers advanced customization options, allowing users to create complex workflows with multiple steps and conditions. Users can set up zaps (automated workflows) with more intricate logic and functionalities.

Functionality and Features

  • IFTTT: IFTTT is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible to beginners and casual users. The platform focuses on basic automation tasks and connecting popular apps and services.
  • Zapier: Zapier is more geared towards power users and businesses, offering advanced features like multi-step zaps, filters, and custom variables. Zapier provides a broader range of functionalities for users who require more complex automation workflows.

Reliability and Performance

  • IFTTT: Some users have reported occasional delays or failures in the execution of applets on IFTTT, affecting the reliability of automated tasks. However, IFTTT continues to improve its platform and address performance issues.
  • Zapier: Zapier is known for its reliability and performance, with minimal disruptions in the execution of automated workflows. The platform is designed to handle large volumes of data and complex workflows efficiently.

Pricing

  • IFTTT: IFTTT offers a free version of its platform with basic features and services. Some advanced features and services may require a subscription or payment.
  • Zapier: Zapier offers a free plan with limited features and a paid subscription with access to more advanced functionalities and integrations.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, IFTTT is a versatile and user-friendly automation platform that offers a wide range of solutions for streamlining workflows and connecting various digital tools and devices. Users can create custom applets or explore pre-made ones from the community to automate tasks across social media, smart home devices, productivity tools, and more. While IFTTT has its limitations, such as reliability issues and privacy concerns, it remains a valuable tool for simplifying everyday tasks. The platform’s free version is accessible to all users, with additional features available through paid subscriptions for those who require more advanced functionalities. Overall, IFTTT is a convenient and efficient solution for automating tasks and improving productivity in various areas of life.

Pricing Plans

There are three plans available with IFTTT. There is a free plan to dip your feet in, a Pro plan to get your hands a little more dirty, and the Pro+ plan to really enhance your automation life. There are both monthly and discounted annual pricing options.