How can Zapier or n8n connect automation systems?

Middleware platforms like Zapier and n8n connect systems without custom development:

How they work: Monitor trigger events in source system. Transform data between system formats. Send data to destination system to trigger actions. Handle authentication and error retry.

Common automation connections: Form submission triggers ESP automation. Purchase event from Shopify triggers email sequence. CRM stage change updates ESP segment. ESP engagement updates CRM record.

Advantages: No-code or low-code setup. Wide range of pre-built integrations. Faster implementation than custom development. Visual workflow builders.

Limitations: Processing delays between systems. Cost scales with usage volume. May not support complex transformation logic. Dependency on third-party platform reliability.

Choosing between options: Zapier: Easier setup, broader integrations, higher cost at scale. n8n: Self-hosted option, more technical, greater flexibility.

Middleware democratizes integration. Teams without developers can connect systems that would otherwise remain isolated.