DEV Community

Dorian Sabitov
Dorian Sabitov

Posted on • Originally published at sfapps.info on

Asana Salesforce Integration Guide

Why You May Need to Integrate Asana with Salesforce

With the Asana and Salesforce integration, sales teams can track customer interactions while project teams can connect customer needs directly to their tasks. It reduces the need for manual data entry, helps avoid duplicated tasks, and keeps all teams on the same page. This way, both sales and project teams can clearly see each other’s work and align their efforts more smoothly.

What Is Asana Salesforce Integration?

Asana is a popular platform for organizing and tracking work, helping teams manage tasks and projects. Salesforce, on the other hand, is a leading customer relationship management (CRM) tool that helps companies track customer interactions, manage sales, and organize support activities.

With Salesforce and Asana integration, sales teams can create tasks and projects in Asana directly from Salesforce. For example, when a sales team closes a deal in Salesforce, they can automatically create a new project in Asana for customer onboarding. This way, there’s no need to manually copy information or remember to update both tools, the integration does it for you.

The integration also makes it possible for project teams to track customer-specific tasks and stages in Asana while keeping sales teams informed in Salesforce. For instance, if there are updates on an onboarding project or if certain customer needs arise, the integration keeps everything aligned. This real-time syncing ensures that everyone is working from the same information, helping teams stay organized and focused on customer needs.

Integrating Asana and Salesforce can be really helpful for businesses that want to improve their teamwork across departments. Here are some of the key reasons why connecting these tools can make such a difference:

  • Improves Team Collaboration Across Departments : sales, customer success, and project teams can stay aligned without constantly needing to switch between platforms.
  • Saves Time and Reduces Manual Data Entry: without integration, team members may need to manually update customer data, create tasks, or log project details in both Salesforce and Asana. This extra work takes time and can lead to errors.
  • Keeps Customer Information Up-to-Date: with Salesforce to Asana integration, updates on customer interactions in Salesforce can automatically create or update tasks in Asana. This is especially valuable for teams that handle post-sale processes, such as customer support or account management.
  • Improves Productivity: automation is one of the key benefits of integrating Asana and Salesforce. Some actions in Salesforce, like closing a sale or updating a customer’s status, can trigger tasks in Asana, allowing teams to move projects forward faster.

Overall, Asana and Salesforce integration is about bringing together project tasks and customer data so that sales, project, and support teams can stay in sync and work more efficiently.

Ways of Integrating Asana and Salesforce

There are several ways to provide Asana to Salesforce integration, each offering different levels of complexity and customization. You can choose the right option depending on your business needs.

  • Salesforce AppExchange Connector: Asana offers an app that connects your projects and tasks to Salesforce records, such as accounts, opportunities, and contacts. It is one of the simplest ways to provide this integration.
  • Custom API Integration: this method involves developing a custom solution that connects Asana and Salesforce using their APIs. This allows businesses to build and automate processes in ways that are not possible with out-of-the-box solutions. It’s a good choice for businesses with specific needs.
  • Third-Party Integration Tools: third-party tools like Zapier, Tray.io, and Workato provide more flexibility and advanced automation. These tools act as middlemen, enabling complex workflows that can automate repetitive tasks and trigger actions based on specific events. They are perfect for businesses with complex needs but require a subscription, with pricing based on the number of tasks or integrations.

In this guide, we’ll look at what the Salesforce and Asana integration can do, and go over all the setup steps using the AppExchange Asana app. We’ll also explore different ways to connect Asana and Salesforce through third-party integration tools

Step-by-Step Salesforce and Asana Integration Guide Using Connector

Asana Salesforce Integration

Preparation

First, you need to have an active Asana and Salesforce account. This integration is available on Asana Enterprise and Enterprise+ tiers. Also they support Salesforce Enterprise and Unlimited editions, so make sure that you are working with those editions to be able to set it up.

It is worth noting that The Asana for Salesforce integration is optimized for Lightning but compatible with Salesforce Classic as well.

Installing the App

Asana app

Step 1. You can download an app from AppExchange Asana Enterprise and Enterprise+ for Salesforce

Asana Settings tab

Step 2. In the Asana Settings tab, you can log into your Asana account to connect it with Salesforce

Adding asana component

Step 3. After successful authorization, you will be able to add an Asana component to your opportunity page using Lightning App Builder.

Creating new task

Now we can easily create new Asana tasks right here in Salesforce.

All Asana tasks

Also, you can track all of your Asana tasks within the context of your Salesforce opportunities

As you can see this is actually a very easy way to integrate Asana and Salesforce. It is all about user-friendly setup without any unnecessary setting options. Now you can try to run your own test to make sure tasks created in Salesforce appear in Asana.

Insight:

Asana Tasks & Projects component allows Sales teams to assign Asana tasks to cross-functional support teams without having to leave SFDC, and let them track progress of those tasks within the right context in SFDC

Third-Party Integration Tools

Zapier

Zapier

Zapier is one of the most commonly used automation tools for integrating web applications. Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive library of “Zaps” (pre-configured workflows), Zapier can help you create triggers and actions between Asana and Salesforce without requiring coding knowledge.

Key Features :

  • Easy Setup with Prebuilt Zaps: Zapier offers a lot of prebuilt workflows, or “Zaps,” which allow users to connect Asana and Salesforce in a few simple steps.
  • Conditional Logic : with Zapier’s advanced plans, you can set up conditional logic, which enables actions based on specific criteria.
  • Error Handling and Alerts: Zapier includes built-in tools for managing and notifying users of any errors in workflows, helping to prevent data inconsistencies.

Pricing :

  • Free Plan: Limited to 100 tasks per month with basic features.
  • Starter Plan: $19.99/month (750 tasks/month).
  • Professional Plan: $49/month (2,000 tasks/month), includes custom logic and multi-step Zaps.
  • Team Plan: $299/month, ideal for larger teams and includes shared workspaces.
  • Company Plan: $799/month, designed for enterprises with advanced features like single sign-on (SSO) and custom data retention

Workato

Workato

Workato is a powerful integration and automation platform specifically designed for more complex workflows, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require detailed customization and advanced automation between Asana and Salesforce.

Key Features :

  • Enterprise-Grade Automation: Workato offers automation features ideal for larger companies with more complex data requirements. Its recipes (custom workflows) enable powerful actions across multiple platforms.
  • Machine Learning Capabilities: it uses machine learning to make workflows smarter, so they can adjust based on past data and predict future needs.
  • Data Mapping and Transformation: Workato includes advanced data mapping options, allowing for custom transformations when syncing data between Asana and Salesforce.

Pricing:

  • Default Plan : $12,000 USD/company/year
  • Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing, designed for businesses with advanced integration and compliance needs.

Tray.io

Trai

Tray.io is a highly flexible integration platform designed for users who require deep customization and automation. It’s often used by mid-size and enterprise companies needing custom API integrations and multi-step workflows between Asana, Salesforce, and other tools.

Key Features :

  • Visual Workflow Builder: Tray.io’s drag-and-drop visual builder allows users to create complex workflows. Users can connect Asana, Salesforce, and other applications through an intuitive interface.
  • Branching and Looping Logic: with Tray.io, you can set up workflows that include conditional branching and loops, which lets you automate complex, multi-step processes.
  • Real-Time Data Syncing: it supports real-time data syncing, which is valuable for teams needing immediate updates between Salesforce and Asana.

Pricing:

  • Starting from : $500.00 USD/month
  • Free trial is available

Possible Challenges of Salesforce-Asana Integration

Understanding common challenges can make the integration process much more effective. Here’s a look at some typical obstacles and ways to overcome them:

1. Data Syncing Issues

Syncing data accurately between Asana and Salesforce can be tricky. Differences in data fields, naming conventions, or formats can create issues like duplicate records.

  • Solution : Set up clear field mappings between Asana and Salesforce. Regularly check and audit the synced data to spot and resolve any mismatches. Integration tools like Zapier and Tray.io come with error-handling features to help catch syncing issues early. For more helpful tips, the Monday.com Salesforce integration guide has insights on keeping data consistent.

2. Workflow Complexity

Building workflows that match your team’s needs can be complicated, especially for teams with detailed processes.

  • Solution : Start small by integrating only essential parts of your sales process. Focus on simple workflows for high-priority tasks and avoid adding too much complexity from the start.

3. Over-Automation

Automating too many tasks can create problems like excessive notifications, duplicated tasks, and extra steps that slow teams down.

  • Solution : Be selective with automation. Focus on high-impact actions, like setting up an Asana task only when a Salesforce opportunity reaches a critical stage, rather than automating every minor change.

4. Ongoing Maintenance

Setting up the integration is just the first step, it requires ongoing maintenance to stay effective. Updates to systems or data fields can disrupt even the best-designed integrations.

  • Solution : Assign a team member to regularly check and maintain the integration. Also, you can collect user feedback to improve workflows and keep everything working properly.

5. High Costs for Advanced Integrations

Advanced integrations with features like multi-step workflows and real-time syncing can be costly. While Zapier offers affordable starter plans, platforms like Workato and Tray.io may be a barrier, especially for smaller businesses.

  • Solution : Begin with tools that fit your budget, and consider upgrading as your needs grow. For guidance on selecting integrations that match different budgets, check out this guide on Jira and Salesforce integration, which provides practical advice for various business sizes.

Looking for professional help with Salesforce and Asana integration?

Request our help!

Explore More

FAQs about Salesforce Asana Integration

Are there any limitations to the Asana integration with Salesforce?

Yes, there can be limitations depending on the integration method. For example, basic integrations might not support complex workflows, custom fields, or real-time syncing. Additionally, some tools may limit the number of actions per month or restrict features on lower-tier plans. It’s best to assess your team’s specific needs and choose a solution that can support them.

Is the Salesforce integration with Asana secure?

Yes, many third-party tools prioritize data security and offer compliance with standards such as GDPR and HIPAA. However, it’s important to choose a trusted integration tool and configure access permissions carefully to protect sensitive data.

How much does it cost to integrate Asana and Salesforce?

The cost depends on the method and tool you choose. Prices can range from around $20 per month for basic needs up to several hundred dollars monthly for advanced setups. Check each tool’s pricing and feature list to find a solution that fits your budget.

Can I customize workflows between Salesforce and Asana?

Yes, customization is possible, especially with more advanced Salesforce integration Asana tools. You can set triggers and actions based on specific Salesforce or Asana events, like creating an Asana task when a Salesforce opportunity reaches a certain stage.

Is technical expertise needed to set up the integration?

Basic setup is usually straightforward and doesn’t require much technical skill. However, for more advanced configurations or customizations, having some development or admin experience can be helpful.

In Conclusion

Integrating Asana and Salesforce can greatly improve team productivity and collaboration by connecting project management with customer relationship data. With this integration, teams can streamline workflows, reduce manual data entry, and get a clearer view of both projects and client information.

In the end, the Asana and Salesforce integration can become a powerful tool to help your team stay organized, work efficiently, and focus on what really matters: delivering great work and achieving business goals. With regular maintenance and occasional adjustments, you can make sure this integration supports your team’s success in the long term.

The post Asana Salesforce Integration Guide first appeared on Salesforce Apps.

Top comments (0)