Business

How we automated our content workflow using Airtable and Make.com

In today’s fast-paced digital world, managing a content workflow can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with repetitive processes or juggling multiple tools. At Sharism, we faced similar challenges but found a robust solution by combining Airtable and Make.com. This transformation not only streamlined our operations but also saved countless hours of manual effort.

The challenges of manual content management

Before automation, our content workflow relied heavily on manual updates, coordination across teams, and constant tracking of progress. This approach presented several hurdles:

  • Delays in updates: Tracking content across spreadsheets was time-consuming and prone to errors.
  • Communication silos: Collaboration was hampered due to scattered tools and inconsistent processes.
  • Lack of visibility: It was difficult to monitor content progress, leaving gaps in execution.

We needed a system that was flexible, easy to integrate, and scalable—enter Airtable and Make.com.

Why Airtable and Make.com were the perfect fit

Airtable is a powerful tool for organizing data, and Make.com excels in creating seamless automation workflows. Together, they offered the flexibility and functionality we needed to optimize our content management. Working with an experienced Airtable consultant allowed us to structure our database effectively, while the expertise of a Make expert ensured we could automate processes without complexity.

How we set up the system

To achieve an efficient workflow, we implemented a three-step process:

  1. designing a central content database in airtable
    Our first step was to set up Airtable as a single source of truth for all content. We organized data into tables for content ideas, assignments, drafts, and publishing schedules. Each record was linked, enabling a clear view of the entire content lifecycle.
  2. building automation workflows in make.com
    Using Make.com, we connected Airtable with other essential tools like Google Drive, Slack, and WordPress. The workflows ensured tasks such as notifications, content reviews, and file uploads were triggered automatically based on specific conditions.
  3. testing and refining
    Automation is not a one-and-done process. After initial deployment, we tested the system extensively, iterating on workflows to make them more efficient and reliable.

The benefits of our automated workflow

Since implementing automation, our content management has transformed dramatically. Here’s what we achieved:

  • increased efficiency: Repetitive tasks like status updates and email reminders are now automated.
  • better collaboration: Teams stay aligned with real-time notifications and shared updates.
  • scalable systems: The workflow is adaptable for adding new processes or tools as we grow.

These improvements not only saved time but also allowed us to focus more on strategy and creativity.

Lessons learned and tips for success

If you’re considering a similar approach, here are some tips to guide you:

  • start small: Begin with automating one or two processes before expanding.
  • focus on data structure: A well-designed Airtable base makes automations smoother and more effective.
  • collaborate with experts: A skilled Airtable consultant and Make expert can help you unlock the full potential of these tools.

Automation doesn’t just improve workflows; it empowers your team to work smarter, not harder.

Conclusion

Automating our content workflow with Airtable and Make.com has been a game-changer for Sharism. The integration of these tools allowed us to eliminate bottlenecks, improve collaboration, and maintain a clear overview of our projects. Whether you’re a growing team or an established organization, investing in automation is a step toward achieving greater productivity and efficiency.

If you’re looking to optimize your own workflow, consider exploring these tools with the help of experts. The benefits will far outweigh the initial setup effort, paving the way for a more seamless and productive content strategy.