ZedNow is a game-changing platform for businesses, bringing together CRM, marketing, and sales tools all under one roof. It simplifies the way companies handle clients and run marketing campaigns. But ZedNow’s real magic happens when you integrate ZedNow with other tools and services.
Integrations take ZedNow’s core features to the next level. You can sync it with email platforms, automate workflows, and connect it with payment processors or website platforms. When you integrate ZedNow, it doesn’t just add features, Thus, it builds a smooth, efficient workflow that slashes manual tasks and cranks up productivity.
Whether you’re a marketer wanting to streamline your campaigns or a business owner automating your operations, ZedNow’s integrations can help you create a connected, efficient ecosystem.
In this article, we’ll break down how these integrations work, the benefits they bring, and how you can start using them to supercharge your business.
Using API Integrations with ZedNow
An API (Application Programming Interface) lets two applications chat with each other, exchanging data like they’re old pals. This is how ZedNow integrates with other tools, automating workflows, and making data sharing a breeze. With APIs, you can integrate ZedNow with apps like Zapier, Pabbly, and more—creating some serious automation that saves time and cranks up productivity.
Steps to Getting Your API Key
Sub-Account API Key
To grab your API key at the sub-account level, head over to Settings and click on Business Profile. You’ll find your API key sitting there, ready to copy with a click on the clipboard icon. Keep that key safe—it’s like the golden ticket to your account’s data.
Agency API Key
For agency-level access, go to Agency Settings and click on API Keys. You’ll see all your location API keys listed in one place. It’s super convenient if you’re running multiple sub-accounts from your agency dashboard.
Once you’ve got your API key, you can paste it into any integration platform you want. For instance, you could drop it into the settings of a LeadConnector plugin on WordPress to enable smooth integration. Or, you might throw it into Zapier to kick off some automated workflows.
API keys are available to users on the Pro Plan. They’re essential for unlocking advanced automation and integrations. If you don’t see them, you might need to bump up your account to access all the goodies.
Oh, and a quick tip—make sure you handle your API keys with care to keep your account secure. Once you have them, you can integrate ZedNow with any supported service that plays nice with its API.
Integrating ZedNow with Payment Processors (Stripe and PayPal)
Getting payment processors like Stripe and PayPal integrated with ZedNow is crucial for smooth transactions. Here’s the lowdown on setting them up for your sub-account.
Stripe Integration
To link Stripe with your ZedNow account, follow these steps:
On your ZedNow dashboard, head to Settings and find the Integrations section.
Look for Stripe in the payment processors list. Hit Continue.
You can also manage it by heading to the Payments tab and the go to Integrations.
Click Connect with Stripe.
Enter your email and set up your Stripe account. If you’ve already got an account, just log in.
Download Google Authenticator on your phone, scan the QR code Stripe gives you, and enter the authentication code.
Fill out your business and personal details on Stripe. Once that’s done, your Stripe account is now synced with ZedNow.
PayPal Integration
Integrating PayPal is a bit different, with two modes to consider: Sandbox (for testing) and Live (for real transactions). Be sure to set up both modes when you integrate ZedNow with PayPal. You’ll need the Sandbox mode for test purchases.
Go to PayPal Developer and log into your account. Navigate to My Apps & Credentials.
Select Live.
Click Create New App, name it, and choose Merchant as the app type.
After creating the app, PayPal will give you a Client ID and Secret ID. Copy these.
Go to Payments > Integrations > PayPal in ZedNow and paste the Client ID and Secret ID from PayPal.
For the testing mode, set up the Sandbox. Just repeat the steps and copy-paste the IDs for the Sandbox fields.
By integrating these payment processors, you’ll streamline payments and manage transactions directly within ZedNow, enhancing your workflow and boosting the customer experience.
Integrating ZedNow with Zapier
What is Zapier?
Zapier is like your personal tech wizard, connecting different apps to automate tasks. It bridges ZedNow with thousands of platforms like Google Sheets, Slack, or Mailchimp. With Zapier, you can create workflows—dubbed “Zaps“—that handle repetitive tasks without breaking a sweat. For instance, when a new lead pops up in ZedNow, Zapier can automatically create a spreadsheet entry or shoot off an email. It’s all about boosting efficiency with zero coding required.
Other tools like Make and Integrately also link ZedNow with other apps, but Zapier is the go-to for many.
Step-by-Step Setup
Create a Zapier Account: If you don’t have a Zapier account yet, sign up on their website using Google, Facebook, Microsoft, or just your email.
Get Your API Key: First, grab your ZedNow API key. For sub-accounts, go to Settings > Business Profile and copy the API key. For agency-level integration, head to Agency Settings to find API keys for all your locations.
Create a Zap: In Zapier, click on “Make a Zap” to kick off your workflow. In the search bar, type LeadConnector (ZedNow’s integration name in Zapier) and select it as your trigger app. Choose a trigger event like “New Lead” to activate the Zap when a new lead is added in ZedNow.
Connect Accounts: Zapier will prompt you to connect your ZedNow account by entering the API key. Paste the key and authenticate your account. Choose the sub-account where the magic should happen.
Choose an Action: After setting up the trigger, define what happens next. For example, integrate with Google Sheets to automatically log new leads, or set up Slack notifications for your team when a new contact is created. With thousands of apps available, you can automate just about anything.
Testing and Finalizing: Once your Zap is set up, Zapier lets you test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Run a test to see if your new lead triggers the right action, like adding data to Google Sheets. If it passes, you’re all set.
Examples of Useful Zaps
Google Sheets: Automatically add new contacts from ZedNow.
Slack: Alert your team in Slack whenever a lead enters ZedNow.
Mailchimp: Add contacts to a Mailchimp list for email marketing.
Integrate ZedNow with Zapier to streamline tasks across different platforms, making your workflows slicker and your business more efficient.
Setting Up and Using Webhooks
What Are Webhooks?
Webhooks are like real-time messengers between apps. Unlike traditional API requests that constantly check for new data, webhooks push information instantly when an event occurs. They automate workflows, saving time and cutting down on manual data entry.
How Do Webhooks Work?
Webhooks follow a straightforward process. When something happens in one app (like a form submission or new contact), it sends an HTTP request to a URL (the webhook) provided by another app, such as ZedNow. That receiving app then takes action based on the data received. It’s a slick way to link apps and react to events as they happen.
Two Ways of Using Webhooks in ZedNow
1. Inbound Webhook
Inbound webhooks pull data from external platforms into ZedNow. For instance, if someone signs up through an external form or service, the webhook can push that data straight into ZedNow’s CRM. This is perfect for updating contacts, creating new entries, or kicking off automated workflows based on external actions.
2. Outbound Webhook
Outbound webhooks push data from ZedNow to other platforms. When a specified event occurs in ZedNow, like a form submission or appointment booking, ZedNow can send that data to a third-party app. This is great for syncing ZedNow data with accounting tools, CRMs, or other services.
How to Set Up a Webhook in ZedNow
Start by navigating to the sub-account where you want to set up the webhook.
Head to the “Automation” section. Either create a new workflow or select an existing one to tweak.
In the workflow, click to add a new trigger, and choose “Inbound Webhook”. This lets ZedNow receive data from an external source.
ZedNow will give you a unique URL. Use this URL in the third-party app to send data.
Go to the external platform you’re connecting with and enter the ZedNow webhook URL in its settings.
It’s vital to test the webhook to make sure it’s working. Send test data from the third-party platform using the appropriate HTTP request method (usually POST) and check if the data appears correctly in ZedNow.
After testing, map the fields in ZedNow to ensure data lands in the right spots. This might involve matching names, emails, or custom fields.
Once your webhook is set and running smoothly, save the trigger in ZedNow and publish the workflow.
Using webhooks can supercharge your automation, keeping your ZedNow system seamlessly connected and updated with external apps—no constant manual intervention is needed.
How to Set Up a Webhook in Zapier
Integrating webhooks into your workflow is crucial for automating and connecting your ZedNow account with other platforms. Webhooks let you receive data from external sources and kick off actions in your systems. Here’s how to set up webhooks using Zapier, especially for ZedNow (via LeadConnector).
Create a Zapier account first. If you don’t have one yet, sign up at Zapier.com. This is your gateway to connecting ZedNow with thousands of apps via Zaps. Since ZedNow doesn’t have a native Zapier app, you’ll use LeadConnector as the trigger app.
First, get your ZedNow API key. You can find it in the ZedNow dashboard under “Settings” and then “API Keys.” Copy this key—you’ll need it for Zapier.
Go to your Zapier account and click “Create a Zap.”
This tells Zapier when to kick off the process. Choose “LeadConnector” as the trigger app, as ZedNow operates through LeadConnector on Zapier.
Pick an event like “Pipeline Stage Changed” or “New Appointment Booked.” This event determines when the webhook will fire.
When prompted, paste the API key you copied earlier. This links Zapier to your ZedNow sub-account.
Testing is key. Use the correct HTTP request method, such as POST, to ensure the webhook sends the right data from ZedNow to Zapier. Zapier will try to capture this data in a webhook format.
Once Zapier receives the data, map it to the appropriate fields in the action step. For example, you can create a new row in Google Sheets or send a Slack notification. This makes sure the data lands where it’s supposed to.
Save your Zap and turn it on. The webhook is now live and will trigger automatically based on your setup.
By integrating webhooks with Zapier, you supercharge your ZedNow workflows, making sure your data flows smoothly between apps with minimal manual effort.
Examples of Common Webhook Use Cases
Webhooks are your backstage pass to next-level automation, enabling smooth communication between different platforms. They let you build efficient workflows without lifting a finger manually. When you integrate ZedNow using webhooks, you connect your CRM with other tools and services, making data transfer and task automation a breeze. Here are some top-notch webhook scenarios:
1. Lead Management Automation
Webhooks excel at managing leads across various platforms. For instance, when a new lead pops up in ZedNow, a webhook can automatically shoot those details to systems like Google Sheets, HubSpot, or Mailchimp. No more manual data entry—your leads stay organized across all your tools. Plus, you can use webhooks to ping your sales team via Slack for instant follow-ups.
2. Instant CRM Updates
Keep your CRM records fresh and accurate with webhooks. If a customer updates their contact info or booking status in ZedNow, a webhook can send these updates to your external CRM. This keeps everything in sync without any manual fuss.
3. Trigger Email Campaigns
Use webhooks to kick off email marketing workflows based on specific events in ZedNow. For example, when a lead progresses through the sales funnel, a webhook can trigger an email campaign in ActiveCampaign or Mailchimp. This automates follow-ups, keeping your prospects engaged without lifting a finger.
4. Integrating with Payment Gateways
Streamline your payment processes with webhooks. When a client makes a payment in ZedNow using Stripe, a webhook can send that payment info to your accounting software like QuickBooks. This ensures transactions are recorded in real-time, cutting down on accounting errors.
5. Managing Appointments and Calendars
Webhooks can simplify appointment scheduling by updating third-party calendars like Google Calendar. For example, when an appointment is booked or rescheduled in ZedNow, a webhook can send this info to external scheduling tools. This keeps everyone’s calendars synced without manual adjustments.
6. Automating Notifications for Task Management
Send notifications to task management systems like Trello or Asana with webhooks. When a task is completed or a client reaches a new stage, ZedNow can trigger a webhook that creates or updates a card in Trello. This helps your team stay on top of tasks and deadlines.
7. E-commerce Order Management
For e-commerce stores, webhooks are a game-changer. When a customer places an order, a webhook can send the details to inventory management systems or shipping providers. This keeps stock levels updated and shipments processed promptly.
8. Data Transfer Between Multiple Systems
Webhooks act as data bridges, ensuring real-time transfer between various applications. Whether syncing your CRM, email marketing tool, accounting software, or helpdesk, webhooks streamline data flow, reducing errors and boosting efficiency.
Integrating ZedNow with these webhook use cases can supercharge your automation, letting you focus on the big picture while leaving repetitive tasks to the tech. Webhooks create a connected, real-time ecosystem that drives efficiency and growth.
Troubleshooting Integration Issues
Integrating ZedNow with other tools can sometimes feel like you’re wrestling with a high-tech gremlin. But don’t worry; understanding common hiccups and knowing how to tackle them can save you a lot of time and frustration. Here’s a rundown of typical problems you might face when you integrate ZedNow and how to fix them.
Common Integration Problems
1. Invalid API Keys
An invalid or missing API key is a frequent roadblock. If the API key is incorrect or outdated, the integration won’t connect. This can happen if the key is copied incorrectly or if its permissions are too restrictive.
2. Webhook Errors
Webhook hiccups are usually due to incorrect configurations. For example, a typo in the webhook URL or using the wrong HTTP request method (POST vs. GET) can cause issues.
3. Data Mapping Issues
When integrating with third-party apps like Google Sheets or Slack, you might run into data mapping problems. If fields from ZedNow don’t match the destination app’s fields, you could end up with incomplete or missing data.
4. Rate Limits
External services like Zapier often impose rate limits on API calls. If you exceed these limits, the service might block further requests temporarily, causing your integration to stall.
5. Outdated Software or Plugins
Integration issues can also stem from outdated software, plugins, or browser extensions. If ZedNow or the third-party tool isn’t running the latest version, compatibility issues may arise.
Tips for Resolving Common Problems
1. Double-Check API Keys
Make sure you’re using the correct API key. If you’re copying it manually, check for extra spaces or errors. Also, confirm the key has the right permissions for the features you need.
2. Test Webhooks
After setting up a webhook, test it thoroughly. Use a tool like Webhook.site to capture the data and ensure it’s being sent correctly. Verify that you’re using the right HTTP request method.
3. Check Data Mapping
Review your data mapping fields in the integration settings. Make sure fields from ZedNow are correctly mapped to the corresponding fields in the connected app (e.g., Google Sheets or Mailchimp). Adjust the mapping if necessary.
4. Stay Within API Limits
If you’re hitting rate limits, spread out your API requests or reduce the number of triggers in your workflows. Keep an eye on the activity dashboard in tools like Zapier to monitor your usage.
5. Update Software and Plugins
Keep both ZedNow and any connected tools up-to-date. Regularly check for updates or new versions to avoid compatibility issues.
When to Reach Out for Support
If your integration issues continue despite your best troubleshooting efforts, it’s time to call in the pros. When you need to integrate ZedNow, the support team is your go-to resource for resolving specific problems. Additionally, community forums and support from third-party platforms like Zapier or Stripe can be valuable. When reaching out for help, be sure to provide detailed information—error logs, screenshots, and specific error codes can speed up the resolution process.
Conclusion
Integrating ZedNow with various tools and services is a game-changer for boosting your business efficiency. It streamlines tasks, manages leads, and ensures seamless data transfer between systems. We’ve covered the essential steps to get you started with each integration and how to troubleshoot common issues.
As you explore ZedNow further, consider diving into more advanced integrations. Think custom automations, multi-step Zaps, and sophisticated webhook setups. These can elevate your business operations to new heights. And remember, if you hit a snag, support and community forums are there to help. Embrace these integrations to optimize your business and save valuable time in your daily processes.
