Introduction
Webhooks are an essential concept in the world of software and automation, but they can often seem complex and technical. This article aims to demystify webhooks in a non-technical way, explain their advantages over traditional methods like polling, and introduce user-friendly tools like Zapier and Make.com that make working with webhooks easier. Make sure to check out the video below to a complete overview.
What are Webhooks?
Imagine you're waiting for a package to be delivered. You could keep looking out the window (polling) to see if it's arrived, or the delivery person could ring your doorbell when they arrive (webhook). Webhooks work similarly in the digital world. They are automated messages sent from one app to another when something happens. Instead of your software constantly checking (or "polling") for updates, webhooks notify your software immediately when a specific event occurs. In the case of Advanced Integration for Jobber, we notify you when a change happens in your Jobber account.
Webhooks vs. Polling
Polling: Like repeatedly checking your mailbox for a letter, polling is when an app regularly checks another app for updates. It's like asking, "Is there anything new?" at regular intervals.
Webhooks: Instead of constantly checking, webhooks are like getting a text message when your letter arrives. They send a notification immediately when a specific event happens.
Advantages of Webhooks
Efficiency: Webhooks provide real-time updates without the need for constant checking.
Resource-Friendly: They reduce the load on servers since they only communicate when necessary.
Faster Response: Webhooks allow for immediate action, making processes quicker.
Using Webhooks with Zapier and Make.com
For those who aren't tech-savvy, platforms like Zapier and Make.com make using webhooks much simpler. These tools act as intermediaries that help connect different apps and set up webhooks without needing to write code.
Zapier: Think of Zapier as a translator that lets different apps talk to each other using webhooks. It's user-friendly and great for automating simple tasks. Find a complete walkthrough for working with webhooks in Zapier
here.
Make.com: Similar to Zapier, Make.com allows for more complex workflows. It connects apps and automates sequences of actions triggered by webhooks.
Examples of How To Use Webhooks
New Lead Alert: When a new Lead is added to Jobber, you could send a text message or Slack message to your team members.
Quote Approved: A webhook can notify you when a quote is approved and initiate the sending of a contract of agreement via DocuSign to get an electronis signature.
Visit Completed: When you or your team members complete a visit for a job, you could initiate any number of things such as an automated text message, a follow up email, or the creation of a task to complete an action.
Conclusion
Webhooks are like digital doorbells for your apps, letting them know instantly when something important happens. They are more efficient than the traditional method of polling and can be easily implemented using tools like Zapier and Make.com, even if you're not a tech expert. By understanding and utilizing webhooks, you can automate many tasks, making your digital life more connected and efficient.
Video