Top 5 Jira workflow automation solutions for enterprise

Want to save time and streamline your Jira workflows? Here are the top 7 automation tools designed for enterprises to handle complex tasks, integrate with essential platforms, and reduce manual work:

1. Automation for Jira: A no-code tool with triggers, conditions, and actions for seamless automation. Integrates with Slack, Microsoft Teams, Bitbucket, and GitHub.
2. ScriptRunner for Jira: Advanced Groovy scripting for custom workflows, system integration, and scheduled automation.
3. Tempo: Combines time-tracking, resource management, and strategic planning to manage large teams and projects.
4. JMWE (Jira Misc Workflow Extensions): Simplifies complex workflows with advanced conditions, task distribution, and cross-project synchronisation.
5. Workato for Jira: Connects Jira with 1,200+ platforms for incident management, ticket migration, and AI-driven automation.

Quick Comparison

Tip: Start by assessing your workflows, identify areas for automation, and choose the tool that aligns with your team's technical skills and needs.

Mastering Jira Cloud Automation

1. Automation for Jira

Automation for Jira is a no-code tool designed to simplify workflows. It uses an "if-this-then-that" approach, allowing teams to build automation sequences without needing coding skills.

The platform supports different levels of automation: single-project, multi-project, and global rules. For larger operations, Jira Premium extends automation limits. Its functionality revolves around three key components:

• Triggers: Events that start the automation process
• Conditions: Rules that determine when actions should occur
• Actions: Tasks executed once the conditions are met

These components enable smooth integration with essential tools, allowing Jira to connect with services like:

Automation for Jira is Atlassian's own and is included in Jira Software Data Center 9.0 and Jira Service Management Data Center 5.0, offering advanced features for large-scale setups [1]. All Jira Cloud plans also come with basic automation features, though usage limits differ based on the plan.

To improve efficiency, businesses can use pre-built automation templates for common tasks and check audit logs regularly to fine-tune their workflows.

2. ScriptRunner for Jira

ScriptRunner takes Jira's automation to the next level by using Groovy scripting, giving enterprise teams the tools to build advanced workflow solutions. It allows teams to go beyond Jira's standard features while ensuring performance remains strong, even in large-scale setups.

What makes ScriptRunner stand out is its ability to handle complex, multi-step automations. Teams can create custom logic, use loops, and set variables to streamline processes. For instance, you can automate issue lifecycles by generating subtasks, synchronising field values, and automatically closing subtasks once the parent task is completed.

Tom Lister, European Jira Administrator at Cheil.uk, highlights the tool's impact:

"ScriptRunner has opened up a world of automation and customisation which otherwise would have required multiple plugins and apps."

ScriptRunner shines in three main areas:

1. Workflow Control

   It enhances workflows with scripted conditions, validators, and post functions. This allows teams to implement detailed approval systems, quality assurance checks, and automated "Definition of Done" lists to maintain project standards.

2. System Integration

   ScriptRunner makes it easier to connect Jira with external systems. Teams can query SQL databases, work with LDAP, and create REST endpoints for data exchange with third-party platforms - ideal for managing complex IT environments.

3. Scheduled Automation

   Scheduled tasks keep systems running smoothly at scale. Christian Wiemer, Senior Technical Consultant at DEMICON, shares:

   "ScriptRunner gives me the confidence to handle any customer need. The flexible way the tool is designed makes anything possible."

ScriptRunner also supports Git for version control and integrates with IDEs for efficient script development. With unlimited automation across all tiers and extensive training resources, it reduces maintenance workload, even in environments with multiple administrators.

3. Tempo

Tempo combines time-tracking with Jira workflow automation, offering a streamlined way for organisations to manage multiple projects and resources. Designed to work seamlessly within Jira, it addresses the complexities of handling large teams and projects.

One of its standout features is Strategic Portfolio Management (SPM), which bridges the gap between strategy and execution. This capability is especially useful for organisations juggling several teams and initiatives at once.

Tempo Automation employs a modular system built around three main components:

1. Time Management Automation

   Tempo Timesheets simplifies essential processes, such as:

   • Tracking CapEx
   • Billing clients
   • Preparing compliance reports
   • Processing payroll
   • Forecasting resource needs

2. Strategic Planning Tools

   The Strategic Roadmaps feature enables businesses to:

   • Align initiatives with organisational goals
   • Track progress on product objectives
   • Monitor overall performance
   • Receive alerts for potential risks

3. Resource Management

   Beyond planning, Tempo enhances resource use with automated tools for:

   • Scheduling tasks
   • Rebalancing workloads
   • Estimating time requirements
   • Sending alerts for resource allocation

Angela Campbell from REDspace’s Project Management Office shared her experience with Tempo:

"Since implementing the Tempo suite, the REDspace team has estimated cost savings of over $220,000 CDN or $25,000 per Project Manager annually." [4]

With over 30,000 companies worldwide relying on Tempo [4], the platform provides automated data collection and analysis to support well-informed decisions and maintain steady performance as teams expand.

4. JMWE (Jira Misc Workflow Extensions)

JMWE expands Jira's functionality, making it easier to handle the demands of large-scale, enterprise environments. It allows organisations to customise workflows to meet specific needs, all without requiring extensive coding. This tool simplifies even the most complex workflows, making it a go-to solution for enterprise-level tasks.

Here’s what JMWE brings to the table:

• Advanced Condition Management: Create detailed workflow rules, including multi-level approvals, dependencies spanning multiple projects, and transitions triggered by time-based conditions.
• Automated Task Distribution: Assign tasks automatically based on predefined criteria, helping teams manage workloads more efficiently.
• Cross-Project Synchronisation: Keep updates and processes consistent across multiple projects, enabling smoother collaboration between teams.

These capabilities help enterprises handle challenges like scaling operations and improving teamwork, while cutting down on manual processes and saving time.

5. Workato for Jira

Workato is an integration platform designed to enhance Jira's automation capabilities by creating smooth workflows across multiple platforms. Here's a closer look at its key features:

Workato offers over 1,200 pre-built connectors, making it easier to automate processes between Jira and other enterprise tools. This helps simplify IT service management tasks.

The platform focuses on three main areas:

Incident Management Automation
Streamline the entire incident lifecycle - from logging to resolution - by connecting Jira with tools like ServiceNow and GitHub. This ensures consistent tracking and quicker resolutions.

Cross-Platform Ticket Migration
Automatically sync tickets across different systems, removing the need for manual data entry and maintaining seamless workflows.

AI Integration for Enterprises
Incorporates AI agents for IT, Sales, and Support, linking them to existing systems and data to improve Jira's automation capabilities.

"Business users have organically started using Workato. Once we identify those business users, we elevate them to be champions to empower other teams or other people, and use them to get the next wave of scale." - Mohit Rao, Head of Intelligent Automation [7]

Workato users report a 283% ROI within six months and save over 100,000 hours through automation [7]. The platform's pre-built accelerators help businesses implement workflows faster, enhancing IT service management and improving collaboration across teams.

Features Comparison

When choosing the right tool for enterprise needs, it's essential to evaluate integration options, customisation capabilities, and how easy each is to implement.

Integration Capabilities

Automation for Jira offers an impressive range with over 3,000 marketplace integrations [8]. On the other hand, ScriptRunner for Jira provides direct access to Jira's Java API (for Server/Data Center) and REST API (for Cloud), allowing for more in-depth customisation.

Workflow Customisation

For businesses with complex workflows, ScriptRunner shines. It supports advanced automation using Groovy scripts, enabling multi-step processes with tailored logic and variables [3]. David Simpson Apps for Jira is another option, focusing on simplifying enterprise workflow automation.

Implementation Complexity

Both Automation for Jira and ScriptRunner are strong in integration and customisation but cater to different user needs. Automation for Jira's no-code interface is ideal for non-technical users, while ScriptRunner's advanced features may require technical skills. To ease the learning curve, ScriptRunner includes built-in scripts and examples [3]. The choice depends on your team's technical proficiency and how much customisation you require.

Next Steps

1. Assessment and Planning

Start by reviewing your current workflows. Identify existing processes, challenges, and areas where automation could help. Develop a clear implementation plan, including testing phases. It’s a good idea to begin with a pilot project to test your approach before rolling it out across the organisation.

2. Technical Preparation

Ensure your Jira setup meets all necessary technical requirements. Check API limits and confirm compatibility with your current tech stack. Set up a testing environment to avoid disruptions in live workflows. Once everything checks out, you can customise and implement your automation plan.

3. Implementation Strategy

Leverage pre-built automation templates to address common scenarios and tweak them to suit your specific needs. Key focus areas include:

4. Deployment and Training

Roll out the automation in phases, starting with one project team. Offer tailored training sessions and create user-specific documentation. Keep a close eye on system performance and how well the team adapts during the initial weeks.

For expert advice, reach out to David Simpson Apps' workflow automation specialists. They can help ensure a smooth transition and optimise your automation strategy.

FAQs

What’s the best way for enterprises to choose the right Jira workflow automation tool for their needs?

To select the best Jira workflow automation tool for your enterprise, start by identifying your organisation’s specific requirements, such as the need to streamline repetitive tasks, improve team collaboration, or scale complex workflows. Consider tools that offer no-code automation features, enabling users to create rules effortlessly without technical expertise.

Look for solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing tools, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, to ensure smooth communication and collaboration. Additionally, pre-built automation templates can save time and provide a solid starting point for customising workflows to meet your unique business challenges. Ultimately, choose a tool that aligns with your enterprise’s goals and enhances efficiency across teams.

What challenges should large organisations consider when implementing Jira workflow automation?

Implementing Jira workflow automation in large organisations can come with challenges such as workflow disruptions, permission conflicts, and integration issues. Without proper planning, these problems could disrupt operations, compromise security, or delay services.

To minimise risks, it’s essential to establish a clear change management process, regularly review and audit workflows, and use automation strategically to improve accuracy and efficiency. Taking a proactive approach ensures smoother implementation and helps teams maintain productivity while scaling their operations.