1. Lark: All-in-one automation software

Lark is an all-in-one collaboration and workflow automation platform that brings messaging, video calls, documents, tasks, and databases into a single secure workspace. At its core, Lark Base empowers teams to automate workflows with smart data management, tailored AI processes, and ready-made templates. Beyond operational efficiency, Lark also enhances productivity with features like AI-driven meeting minutes, multilingual collaboration, and real-time analytics. Built for SMBs, enterprises, and hybrid teams, Lark eliminates the need for multiple disconnected tools by combining communication and automation in one platform.

Key features:

• Lark Base: Workflow Automation with formulas, triggers & views

Lark Base is a no-code database interface that powers workflow automation. Teams can build task trackers, lightweight CRMs, or onboarding workflows and enrich them with formulas for auto-calculated fields like deadlines or priorities. Triggers automate actions—for example, updating a record can notify team members in Messenger or create follow-up tasks automatically. Multiple views (kanban, list, or calendar) give flexibility in how data is visualized, making it easier for teams to monitor and adapt workflows.

• Lark Approval: Automate sign-offs and requests

With Lark Approval, businesses can replace manual approval chains with structured, automated workflows. Common tasks like expense claims, time-off requests, or campaign sign-offs can be routed through predefined rules. Conditional branching allows for dynamic routing—for example, escalating approvals based on budget size or department. Notifications are pushed to Messenger so stakeholders never miss a request, keeping the review process smooth and efficient.

• Lark Tasks: Auto-assign and track jobs

Lark Tasks enables automation programs that streamline task delegation. Tasks can be auto-assigned based on workflow triggers from Base or specific project stages. Deadlines, attachments, and subtasks ensure full context, while real-time notifications keep everyone accountable. Tasks are tightly integrated with Docs and Base, allowing teams to link project data and content directly to action items.

• Lark Docs & Lark Wiki: Embed automation in reporting and knowledge hubs

Lark Docs supports real-time co-editing for campaign plans, reports, and project documents. Automation comes in through embedding Base views or live task updates into Docs for up-to-date reporting. Meanwhile, Lark Wiki serves as a knowledge hub where SOPs and best practices can be organized, categorized, and searched easily. Permission-based access ensures sensitive information remains secure while still promoting knowledge sharing.

• Lark Messenger & Lark Meetings: Integrated communication with workflow context

Lark Messenger and Meetings bring context into communication. Teams can share workflow updates directly in chats, tag colleagues for faster responses, or hold video meetings tied to specific projects. Lark Meetings recordings, notes, and action items can be auto-synced into Docs or Tasks, reducing duplication and ensuring follow-through. By tying communication directly to workflows, Lark eliminates the gaps between discussion and execution.

• AI-powered enhancements across workflows

Beyond its modular tools, Lark embeds AI shortcuts throughout the platform. Smart data management in Lark Base automatically tags, summarizes, and organizes information. Meeting minutes are generated by AI, saving time on documentation. Real-time translation across 12 languages supports multilingual teams. Pre-designed AI templates accelerate workflow setup, while sales automation enriches lead data and customer feedback workflows categorize and respond in real time. Even IT teams benefit with AI-driven ticket routing and auto-generated responses. Together, these AI capabilities extend workflow automation beyond simple triggers to intelligent, adaptive processes.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.7/5

• Capterra: 4.8/5

Pros:

• Unified platform: Combines automation, collaboration, documentation, and task tracking in one workspace.

• No-code workflows: Easily set up triggers, actions, formulas, and views without needing developers. 

• Generous free tier: Many automation features—Base, Approval, Messenger—available with no cost, with affordable paid upgrades. 

• Mobile-friendly: Lark apps support notifications and approvals on the go, ensuring workflow continuity.

Cons:

• Complexity for advanced workflows: Base automations can become intricate; users might need training to build multi-step loops or conditional branches.

Pricing:

• Starter plan: Free forever plan that includes 11 powerful tools for up to 20 users. It also comes with 100GB of storage, 1000 automation runs, AI translations, and more.

• Pro plan: $12/user/month (billed annually) for up to 500 users. It includes everything in Starter plus group calling for up to 500 attendees, 15TB of storage, 50,000 automation runs, and more.

• Enterprise plan: Contact sales for custom pricing. Supports unlimited users and includes even more automation runs and advanced data security, compliance, and management features.

Best for: Lark is ideal for SMBs, startups, and enterprises that need a workflow automation platform integrating communication, project tracking, and approvals in one place. Teams burdened by switching among email, Slack, Trello, and approval tools will find relief in Lark’s unified environment. Whether coordinating marketing campaigns, processing HR approvals, or managing operations, Lark enables teams to both automate and collaborate efficiently, forging smoother workflows while reducing overhead.

2. Zapier: Automate repetitive tasks across popular apps

Zapier is one of the most popular workflow automation tools, known for connecting thousands of apps without requiring coding knowledge. It allows businesses to automate repetitive tasks across platforms like Gmail, Slack, Trello, and Salesforce, turning them into seamless, multi-step workflows. For small and mid-sized businesses, Zapier is often the go-to solution for linking everyday tools into one connected system.

Image source: zapier.com

Key features:

• 5,000+ app integrations: Connects widely used apps across categories like marketing, sales, and IT.

• Multi-step workflows (Zaps): Automate complex processes that involve multiple apps and conditions.

• Conditional logic (Paths): Create workflows that branch based on customer actions or data inputs.

• Pre-built templates: Use ready-made automation examples to get started quickly.

• No-code builder: Build and manage workflows with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.5/5

• Capterra: 4.7/5

Pros: 

• Extremely large library of app integrations.

• Easy to set up and use, even for beginners.

• Scales from simple automations to advanced, multi-step workflows.

Cons: 

• Pricing increases significantly for high task volumes.
  Reliant on third-party app APIs, which can limit reliability if those services change.

Pricing: 

• Free plan available: up to 100 tasks per month.

• Pro plan: $19.99/month when billed annually.

Best for: Zapier is best for SMBs and teams that rely on multiple apps and want to automate workflows across them without coding. It’s especially useful for marketing, operations, and IT teams that need quick, flexible automation to save time on repetitive tasks.

3. Microsoft Power Automate: Enterprise-grade workflow automation

Microsoft Power Automate is an enterprise-ready workflow automation platform that integrates deeply with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Office 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure. It enables organizations to automate repetitive business processes, connect apps, and streamline IT and enterprise workflows. With advanced tools like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and AI Builder, it’s designed to handle complex automation scenarios across departments.

Image source: microsoft.com

Key features:

• Robotic process automation (RPA): Automate manual, rule-based tasks such as data entry with bots.

• AI builder: Incorporate AI models for predictions, sentiment analysis, or form processing.

• Pre-built connectors: Integrates with hundreds of Microsoft and third-party applications.

• Cloud and desktop flows: Supports both cloud-based workflow automation and desktop task automation.

• Process advisor: Analyzes workflows to recommend efficiency improvements.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.4/5

• Capterra: 4.5/5

Pros: 

• Deep integration with Microsoft apps and services.

• Supports advanced automation with RPA and AI.

• Enterprise-grade compliance, security, and scalability.

• Wide library of pre-built connectors.

Cons:

• Can be complex for non-technical users to set up advanced flows.
  Pricing can escalate quickly for larger automation needs.

Pricing: 

• Premium plan: $15/user/month, billed annually.

• Other plans include Process plan ($150 per bot/month) and Hosted Process ($215 per bot/month), both billed yearly. 

Best for: Microsoft Power Automate is best for enterprises and mid-sized businesses that rely heavily on Microsoft tools and need advanced workflow automation applications. It’s especially suited for IT teams, finance departments, and large organizations that require secure, scalable, and AI-driven automation.

4. Make: Visual workflow automation platform for complex processes

Make, previously known as Integromat, is a visual workflow automation platform that empowers teams to design and manage complex automations without coding. Known for its drag-and-drop interface, it allows businesses to connect apps, services, and databases while building multi-step workflows with logic, conditions, and real-time monitoring. Make is popular among SMBs, startups, and technical teams that need flexibility beyond simple task automation.

Image source: make.com

Key features: 

• Visual workflow builder: Create automations through an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.

• Multi-app integrations: Connect with hundreds of popular apps, services, and APIs.

• HTTP & API modules: Build advanced integrations using custom APIs.

• Scenario templates: Access pre-made automation templates for faster setup.

• Real-time execution: Monitor automations live to track data flow and troubleshoot errors.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.6/5

• Capterra: 4.8/5

Pros:

• Extremely flexible with visual, no-code/low-code design.

• Affordable entry-level pricing for SMBs.

• Strong support for advanced, multi-step workflows.

• Excellent real-time monitoring and debugging tools.

Cons: 

Can feel technical or overwhelming for beginners.

Complex workflows may require API knowledge.

Pricing: 

• Free plan: Includes 1,000 operations/month and 2 active scenarios.

• Core plan: $9/month (annually) with 10,000 operations.

• Pro plan: $16/month with 50,000 operations.

• Teams plan: $29/month.

• Enterprise: Custom pricing.

Best for: Make is best for SMBs, startups, and developers who need a workflow automation app that offers more flexibility than Zapier and can handle complex processes. It’s especially valuable for technical teams looking to automate multi-step workflows with advanced logic and API integrations.

5. Kissflow: No-code automation for business process management

Kissflow is a no-code workflow automation platform designed to simplify business process management (BPM). It allows organizations to design, manage, and optimize workflows across HR, finance, procurement, and IT without needing coding expertise. By focusing on ease of use, Kissflow empowers both technical and non-technical users to automate approvals, manage requests, and streamline day-to-day operations.

Image source: kissflow.com

Key features:

• No-code workflow builder: Drag-and-drop interface to design and customize workflows.

• Pre-built templates: Ready-to-use workflows for HR onboarding, expense approvals, and procurement.

• Role-based access control: Manage permissions and maintain secure processes across departments.

• Analytics & reporting: Gain insights into process efficiency with real-time dashboards.

• Cloud deployment: Fully cloud-based, ensuring accessibility and scalability for global teams.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.3/5

• Capterra: 4.3/5

Pros: 

• User-friendly, no-code platform suitable for non-technical teams.

• Scales well for both SMBs and enterprises.

• Wide range of pre-built process templates.

• Strong reporting and analytics features.

Cons: 

• Limited third-party app integrations compared to tools like Zapier or Make.

• Pricing can be higher for small teams once scaling up.

Pricing: 

• Pricing is custom based on user count and use cases.

• The Basic or Small Business plan typically starts around $1,500/month.

Best for: Kissflow is best for businesses and enterprises looking for workflow automation applications that streamline HR, finance, and procurement processes. It’s especially useful for organizations that want to empower non-technical teams with no-code automation while maintaining control, compliance, and scalability.

6. Nintex: Enterprise workflow and document automation software

Nintex is an enterprise-grade workflow automation platform that specializes in process management and document automation. It enables businesses to map, manage, and optimize workflows across industries, making it a strong choice for large organizations with complex operational needs. With powerful integrations for Microsoft SharePoint, Office 365, and Salesforce, Nintex is widely used by enterprises looking to digitize approvals, document generation, and compliance-heavy workflows.

Image source: nintex.com

Key features:

• Drag-and-drop workflow designer: Build and customize workflows with a visual interface.

• Process mapping: Document and analyze existing processes to identify areas for improvement.

• Document generation: Automate the creation of contracts, invoices, and compliance documents.

• Integration with Microsoft & Salesforce: Seamlessly connects with SharePoint, Office 365, and other enterprise systems.

• Analytics & optimization: Gain insights into workflow performance and process efficiency.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.1/5

• Capterra: 4.2/5

Pros: 

• Strong process mapping and documentation tools.

• Excellent document automation and compliance support.

• Deep integration with Microsoft and Salesforce ecosystems.

• Scalable for complex enterprise needs.

Cons: 

• Pricing is not transparent and can be expensive.

• Steeper learning curve compared to SMB-focused platforms.

Pricing: 

• Pricing is not publicly listed. You must contact Nintex for a quote depending on your use case and scale.

Best for: Nintex is best for large enterprises that need automation software platforms capable of handling complex workflows, heavy compliance requirements, and advanced document automation. It’s a top choice for organizations heavily invested in Microsoft or Salesforce ecosystems.

7. Cflow: Simple and affordable workflow automation for SMBs

Cflow is a cloud-based workflow automation platform designed primarily for SMBs that want simple, affordable, and effective automation. With its drag-and-drop workflow builder, teams can create approval flows, HR processes, finance operations, and IT workflows without needing technical expertise. Its affordability and ease of use make it a strong choice for small businesses seeking to digitize manual tasks.

Image source: cflow.com

Key features:

• Drag-and-drop workflow designer: Quickly design workflows for HR, IT, or finance without coding.

• Pre-built templates: Access ready workflows for leave requests, expense approvals, and purchase orders.

• Role-based access control: Define permissions to ensure security and compliance.

• Cloud-based platform: Enables remote access and scalability for growing teams.

• Analytics dashboard: Track task completion times, bottlenecks, and efficiency metrics.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.6/5

• Capterra: 4.5/5

Pros: 

• Very user-friendly for SMBs with no technical background.

• Affordable plans compared to most enterprise automation programs.

• Offers strong analytics for process visibility.

• Pre-built templates accelerate adoption.

Cons:

• Limited integrations compared to larger competitors like Zapier or Make.

• Less suited for large-scale, enterprise-grade automation.

Pricing: 

• Joy plan: $11/user/month (annual billing), minimum 10 users.

• Bliss plan: $16/user/month (annual billing), minimum 20 users.

• Zen plan: Custom pricing for 100+ users.

Best for: Cflow is best for small and mid-sized businesses seeking a workflow automation application that’s easy to set up, budget-friendly, and effective for HR, finance, and approval processes. It’s particularly useful for teams digitizing manual workflows for the first time.

8. Zoho Flow: Workflow automation app for the Zoho ecosystem

Zoho Flow is a workflow automation app built for SMBs, especially those already using the Zoho ecosystem. It connects Zoho apps like Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, and Zoho Projects with third-party applications, enabling seamless data flow and process automation. With an intuitive drag-and-drop editor, Zoho Flow empowers non-technical teams to automate tasks and integrate apps without coding.

Image source: zoho.com

Key features:

• 500+ app integrations: Connects Zoho tools and popular third-party apps.

• Drag-and-drop builder: Build automated workflows visually without coding.

• Custom functions: Extend workflows with Deluge scripting for advanced customization.

• Real-time data sync: Keeps data consistent across apps by triggering updates instantly.

• Pre-built flow templates: Start quickly with ready-made flows for common use cases.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.3/5

• Capterra: 4.5/5

Pros: 

• Excellent for SMBs already using Zoho’s suite of products.

• Affordable entry-level pricing with free trials.

• Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface for quick adoption.

• Supports custom functions for advanced users.

Cons: 

• Limited integrations outside of Zoho compared to Zapier or Make.

• Advanced workflows may feel restrictive for complex enterprise needs.

Pricing:

• Standard plan: Starting at $10.50/month (with specified flow or task limits).

• Professional plan: Higher tier pricing (not clearly listed publicly).

• Offers free trial and freemium entry, pricing is pay-as-you-go.

Best for: Zoho Flow is best for small and mid-sized businesses already invested in Zoho products that want a workflow automation tool to connect their apps and simplify processes. It’s especially effective for teams that value affordability and integration within the Zoho ecosystem.

9. IFTTT: Lightweight app and device automation tool

IFTTT (If This Then That) is a lightweight workflow automation application designed for individuals, small businesses, and teams that want simple, app-based automations. It connects over 700 services, apps, and smart devices using “applets” to trigger actions based on specific conditions. IFTTT is popular for personal productivity, smart home automation, and small-scale business workflows that don’t require heavy technical setup.

Image source: ifttt.com

Key features:

• 700+ app & device integrations: Connects apps like Gmail, Slack, Dropbox, and IoT devices.

• Simple conditional logic: Automations (“applets”) run based on if/then rules.

• Multi-step Applets (Pro): Create more advanced workflows with multiple actions.

• Cross-platform support: Works on web, Android, and iOS.

• AI & query features (Pro+): Enhanced customization with filter code, queries, and AI-based services.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.3/5

• Capterra: 4.6/5

Pros: 

• Very easy to use, beginner-friendly interface.

• Wide range of integrations with apps and smart devices.

• Affordable entry-level plans, including a free tier.

• Great for combining work apps with IoT productivity.

Cons: 

• Limited functionality for complex, business-grade workflows.

• Reporting and analytics features are minimal.

Pricing: 

• Free Plan: $0 forever

• Pro Plan: $2.99/month (billed annually $35.88)

• Pro+ Plan: $8.99/month (billed annually $107.88)

Best for: IFTTT is best for individuals, freelancers, and small teams seeking a workflow automation app to connect simple tasks between apps and devices. It’s especially useful for those who want to merge personal productivity with work automation in a budget-friendly way.

10. Automations.io: Workflow automation platform with human approvals

Automations.io is a workflow automation platform built to help businesses automate approvals, forms, and integrations with ease. It’s designed for teams that want more structured automation around human tasks, browser-based workflows, and integrations. Unlike simpler tools, Automations.io focuses on combining workflow automation applications with enterprise-grade scalability, making it suitable for teams moving beyond basic app connections.

Image source: automations.io

Key features:

• Workflow automation: Create and manage workflows with forms, approvals, and triggers.

• Human tasks & approvals: Assign tasks to team members as part of automation flows.

• Browser Automation: Automate repetitive browser tasks like form submissions or data entry.

• Custom forms domain: Host branded forms for customer-facing or internal workflows.

• Premium integrations: Connect with enterprise-grade applications for end-to-end automation.

Customer rating:

• G2: 4.4/5

• Capterra: 4.5/5

Pros: 

• Supports both automated and human task workflows.

• Offers browser automation—rare among workflow automation tools.

• Flexible for businesses with complex approval processes.

• Unlimited integrations available.

Cons: 

• Higher entry-level pricing compared to SMB-focused competitors.

• Limited visibility and adoption compared to Zapier or Make.

Pricing: 

• Team Plan: $99/month

• Business Plan: Custom Pricing

Best for: Automations.io is best for businesses and enterprises that need structured workflow automation platforms combining human approvals with automated tasks. It’s particularly valuable for organizations looking to manage approvals, browser-based automations, and form workflows in one centralized platform.