How I Automated a 4-Hour Task into Minutes with a User-Friendly App
1. The Problem
Our team was stuck using Google Apps Scripts for manual processes that ate up over 4 hours every time they needed to be done. It wasn’t just time-consuming—it was costly and frustrating. I knew there had to be a better way.
2. The Plan
I decided to create an easy-to-use app for non-techies that could handle these tasks automatically. Here’s what I used:
Replit: For building and testing the app’s logic.
Google Sheets: This was the old way, but I also used it to map out workflows.
Postman: To test and set up the API integration.
I wanted the app to integrate smoothly with an API using OAuth 2.0 for security, focusing on automating things like user onboarding.
3. Building the App
Made It Simple: The app is designed for non-technical users, so I focused on a clean, intuitive interface.
Connected the Dots: Integrated with an API endpoint to handle processes that used to rely on Google Sheets.
Automated Onboarding: One key feature was automating how users were added to the platform, removing the need for manual steps.
4. Testing & Tweaks
I used Postman to test API calls and troubleshoot issues.
Built and debugged the app in Replit to make sure it worked smoothly.
Got feedback from the team and made tweaks to improve the user experience.
5. The Results
Time Saved: Tasks that took 4+ hours now run in minutes.
Cost Savings: The app is estimated to save the team hundreds of dollars every day.
User-Friendly: Non-tech team members can now handle these tasks without a hitch.