Integrations in Motion: Native, Zapier, and API
Note: Motion's Zapier and API integrations are only available for Pro, Pro w/ AI, and Enterprise Tier subscriptions.
Note: This article assumes you've read "Native Integrations in Motion: Task from Email & Task from Siri". If you haven't, we recommend starting there for foundational concepts.
Summary:
Integrations in Motion unlock powerful workflows, connecting Motion with other tools to reduce manual tasks, increase productivity, and streamline your team's operations.
Motion supports integrations across three primary methods:
Native Integrations – Built directly into Motion for simple, out-of-the-box functionality.
Zapier Integrations – Flexible automations connecting Motion with 5,000+ tools.
API Integrations – Fully customizable workflows via Motion's REST API.
Let’s break each one down in detail.
1. Native Integrations
Native integrations are built directly into Motion and offer seamless functionality for common workflows.
1.1 Task from Email
Overview: Automatically create tasks in Motion directly from your inbox.
How it works: Forward an email to your unique Motion task creation email address.
Use case: You receive an important client email → Forward it to Motion → It shows up as a task in your inbox.
1.2 Task from Siri
Overview: Create tasks in Motion hands-free using Siri.
How it works: Use a Siri shortcut to add tasks to Motion.
Use case: While driving or on the go, you can say, “Hey Siri, Motion, create a task for XYZ”.
2. Zapier Integrations
Zapier allows you to connect Motion with thousands of other applications, automating workflows without writing a single line of code. Learn about which Zapier actions are supported in Motion [here].
2.1 Why Use Zapier?
Automation Across Tools: Connect Motion with CRMs, marketing platforms, and task managers.
Reduce Manual Work: Automate repetitive workflows.
Scalable Solutions: Build workflows for teams of any size.
2.2 Common Zapier Use Cases
Use Case 1: Motion ↔ Pipedrive
Scenario: Automatically create tasks in Motion when a deal moves stages in Pipedrive.
Trigger: Deal stage changes to "Contract Signed."
Action: Create a task in Motion titled "Follow up with client X."
Why it matters: Sales teams can ensure smooth handoffs without manually duplicating tasks.
Use Case 2: Motion ↔ Google Sheets
Scenario: Automatically log completed tasks from Motion into a Google Sheet.
Trigger: Task marked as "Completed."
Action: Add a row in Google Sheets with task details.
Why it matters: Maintain a historical log for reporting and analysis.
2.3 Setting Up a Zap in Motion
Follow these steps to set up a Zap:
Step 1 Set Up the Trigger
Log in to your Zapier account.
Click on "Make a Zap" at the top of the page.
Select "Microsoft To-Do" as the trigger app, for example. (You can connect other available apps to Motion)
Choose the appropriate trigger event, such as "New Task."
Connect your Microsoft To-Do account (or the account you're trying to integrate with) to Zapier and test the trigger to ensure it fetches task data correctly.
Step 2 Configure the Action
Choose "Motion" as the action app.
Select "Create Task" as the action event.
Connect your Motion account to Zapier.
Test the action to allow Zapier to create a sample task in Motion.
Turn on the Zap to automate the process.
Note: This Zapier integration allows you to create tasks in Motion, but this is a one-way connection. This means tasks in Motion won't trigger actions in the app you've connected with Motion.
2.4 Best Practices for Zapier Integrations
Start Small: Build one Zap at a time.
Use Naming Conventions: Clear names help manage multiple Zaps.
Test Regularly: Ensure workflows remain functional.
3. API Integrations
Motion's REST API provides full flexibility for creating custom integrations tailored to your business needs.
3.1 Introduction to Motion API
Overview: Motion's REST API allows you to interact programmatically with tasks, projects, and more.
Documentation: Motion REST API Docs
3.2 Example Integration: Custom Automation with API
Problem Statement & Motivation
Manual workflows between Motion and external systems create inefficiencies and data silos.
Objective: Enable seamless task management through API integrations.
Example Workflow
Trigger: New task created in an external tool.
Action: Create a task in Motion.
Best Practices for API Integrations
Authentication: Secure API keys.
Error Handling: Implement retry logic.
Documentation: Keep API workflows well-documented.
For more advanced API integration guides, visit Motion API Documentation.
4. Conclusion
Integrations bridge the gap between Motion and your other tools, whether via native integrations, Zapier, or the API. Each method serves a unique purpose, and together they enable Motion to fit seamlessly into your tech stack.
If you encounter any challenges or have custom integration needs, don’t hesitate to reach out!
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