If This Then That (IFTTT) - Connect Apps & Automate Tasks

Unlocking Web App Synergy with If This Then That (IFTTT)

Explore innovative methods to link your preferred web applications. Described by its creator, Linden Tibbets, as “digital duct tape,” If This Then That (IFTTT) empowers users to discover novel applications for existing web tools through seamless integration.

The core concept behind IFTTT is to bridge the gap between the isolated nature of digital programs and the interconnectedness of the physical world. We routinely combine physical objects to create new functionalities, and IFTTT aims to replicate this process online.

The Power of Digital Combination

Tibbets illustrates this potential with a relatable example: “When a 12 year old wants a lightsaber, [he] cuts the handle off an old broom and shoves a bike grip on the other end.” IFTTT allows for similar ingenuity, enabling the combination of digital elements in unforeseen ways.

The possibilities are extensive. Automated tweeting of content from any RSS feed is readily achievable. Users can receive email or SMS notifications for new listings matching specific criteria on Craigslist.

Automating Your Digital Life

IFTTT facilitates real-time alerts via text message when emails arrive from designated contacts. Furthermore, tweets can be automatically synchronized with a Google Calendar, effectively creating a personal timeline.

Essentially, any web-based action can trigger a corresponding reaction, automating web application workflows. Consider IFTTT as a central hub for unifying your otherwise disparate online tools.

This platform serves as the essential tool for connecting all your isolated web applications, streamlining your digital experience.

Understanding Automated Connections

The core principle behind this system revolves around defining two key elements: a trigger and a corresponding action. Consider the following as an illustration of how this functions.

This configuration ensures that any article I share via Google Reader is automatically posted to Twitter, accompanied by my personal notes. The act of sharing content on Google Reader serves as the trigger, while the resulting tweet, linking to the shared article, represents the action. After initial setup within ifttt, any shared item will be automatically tweeted.

The fundamental concept at play is automation. It all begins with a straightforward statement:

To initiate the process, select the word "this." You will then be prompted to identify the application you wish to utilize as the trigger source.

A wide array of options is available for selection. As an example, the weather application could be chosen, with the action being a forecast of rain for the following day.

Having established the trigger, the next step involves choosing an action. For instance, ifttt could be configured to provide a voice call with the weather information.

With both the "this" and the "that" components defined, a complete instruction is formed.

Consequently, whenever the forecast predicts rain for tomorrow, I will receive a phone call notifying me of the condition.

This represents just one of countless potential combinations. Instead of a phone call, I could opt for an SMS message, an email, or a Facebook notification. Alternatively, the information could be saved directly to my Dropbox account. These options are known as channels, and they are easily integrated into the service.

Further exploration will reveal a multitude of possibilities. I can receive a phone call when a specific individual mentions me on Facebook, or when a desired item becomes available for sale on Craigslist. Automatic cross-posting between Twitter and Facebook is also achievable, as is the setup of a hotel-style wake-up call.

Numerous additional examples could be cited, but the full extent of this tool's capabilities is best understood through direct experimentation.

Activating Channels

Navigate to the Channels area within the platform, where a variety of applications are displayed.

Applications presented in color indicate they are already active, while those in grayscale require your initiation. Select the grayscale applications to begin the activation process.

You will likely be prompted to grant IFTTT authorization to access your connected services, a process that may require some time. Rest assured, the benefits of doing so are substantial.

Exploring Existing Automations

If the core concept appeals to you, yet you're uncertain about the specific commands to formulate, consider examining automations created by other users. These pre-built workflows, known as recipes, can significantly inspire your own automation designs.

• They offer practical examples of how the tool can be utilized.
• Recipes demonstrate a wide range of potential applications.