Automation Guides

Smartsheet automation

Smartsheet automation is about having the tool carry out routine updates, notifications, and task handoffs so teams do not have to manage each small step themselves.

By reducing repetitive edits and keeping actions aligned with predefined rules, it helps maintain consistent processes as projects grow and become more complex.

Smartsheet automation can also link with other workplace tools, making sure information moves between systems without extra manual work.

Why You Should Automate Smartsheet

Automating Smartsheet lets teams handle repetitive work with less manual effort and fewer copy-paste mistakes.

Tasks like updating records or sending status notifications can run on their own, so people spend less time checking cells and more time reviewing outcomes.

Smartsheet automation also helps make sure key steps happen in the same order every time, which supports consistent project tracking across different teams.

As more rows, sheets, and stakeholders are added, automated rules keep applying the same logic without extra setup for each new item.

This helps workflows scale in a steady, predictable way, since actions continue to run according to predefined conditions even as usage grows.

How Activepieces Automates Smartsheet

Activepieces automates Smartsheet by acting as an orchestration layer that connects it with other applications and services.

When events occur in Smartsheet, such as changes to rows or updates to specific fields, Activepieces can use those events as triggers to start workflows.

Once triggered, the workflow passes the Smartsheet data through a series of steps that can transform values, branch with conditional logic, or combine details from other tools.

Actions in later steps can then create, update, or share information in connected systems so teams do not have to manually copy data out of Smartsheet.

All of this is configured using a no-code or low-code interface, so users map fields, define conditions, and refine behavior visually.

Over time, these workflows help make sure Smartsheet-based processes stay adaptable, maintainable, and easier to adjust as requirements change.

Common Smartsheet Automation Use Cases

Smartsheet automation often supports core data management tasks by keeping records aligned as work progresses.

When a row is created or updated, automations update related fields, sync key details to summary sheets, or adjust dates so information stays consistent without manual edits.

Event-based workflows use activity inside the tool as triggers for follow-up steps.

Status changes, comments, or assigned owners start automations that update fields, move rows between sheets, or alert stakeholders when something needs attention.

Teams rely on Smartsheet automation to handle repetitive operational tasks across projects.

Rules update records, apply labels or statuses, and send internal notifications when conditions are met, so routine steps happen the same way every time.

Smartsheet automation also helps connect work in the tool with other systems that teams use.

Notifications, structured exports, or scheduled updates share key information outward, making sure details stay aligned across teams and reducing the risk of conflicting records.

FAQs About Smartsheet Automation

How can I troubleshoot automation that is not running?

Smartsheet automation that is not running often points to disabled workflows or outdated conditions, so first review and re-enable any impacted automation rules. Confirm triggers still match current sheet structures, column names, and cell values. Finally, verify permission settings and notification preferences so Smartsheet automation can execute and send alerts correctly.

What triggers can start an automation process automatically?

Smartsheet automation can start automatically when specific changes happen in a sheet, such as rows being added, updated, or deleted. It can also trigger from time-based rules like a set date, recurring schedule, or reminders approaching a due date. Some workflows start from form submissions or when fields meet defined conditions.

How do I manage permissions for automated workflows?

Manage permissions for automated workflows by adjusting sheet sharing so only appropriate users have Admin or Owner roles. Configure each workflow to run under a specific user account so actions respect that user's access rights. Regularly review permissions and activity logs to make sure workflows do not update or expose restricted data.

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