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When creating a Zapier app, it's crucial to choose how you'll set up the triggers. Triggers are essential as they start a series of workflows in response to certain events. There are two main methods to consider: polling and webhooks. Both serve to fetch real-time data from APIs, enabling your app to react to events like new record creation or a new user joining. With that said, let’s explore the methods!
Polling
Polling is a way to repeatedly check for new data by sending requests to an API endpoint. Zapier uses polling to look for updates, making it a common approach, especially when working with services that do not support webhooks. This method involves Zapier hitting the same endpoint at regular intervals, ranging from 1 to 15 minutes depending on the user's plan, to see if there's any new information.
While polling is straightforward and often the only option if a service lacks webhooks, it's not very efficient. Each check involves making a request just to see if there's anything new, which can use up a lot of resources and isn’t near real-time for users on lower plans.
Webhooks
Webhooks act like alerts, sending automated messages from apps when specific events occur. Unlike polling, where Zapier has to regularly check for updates, webhooks allow your app to notify Zapier directly when there's new data. Your app only communicates with Zapier when necessary.
However, for Zapier apps, simply having webhooks isn't enough. You need to implement RestHooks, which are webhook subscriptions that can be manipulated through a REST API. When doing so you’re app will also get the additional designation as an instant trigger in the Zap editor.
While webhooks offer a more user-friendly and resource-efficient approach, setting them up can be a challenge if your API isn't already prepared for them.
Choosing between polling and webhooks for your app
Deciding whether to use polling or webhooks depends on your app's current setup. If your app already supports webhooks, especially Rest Hooks that allow webhook management via API, it's best to go with webhooks. If webhooks aren't an option for your app right now, polling is a reliable alternative.
That's all there is to it! If you're thinking about creating a Zapier app and could use some guidance, Lunch Pail Labs is ready to help. Reach out to Lunch Pail Labs to learn how a Zapier app could add value to your business.
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