Smartsheet Bridge

Basic Information

Smartsheet Bridge is a no-code/low-code solution designed to create complex workflows and automate tasks across various systems.

• Model: Smartsheet Bridge
• Version: Continuously updated as a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) offering.
• Release Date: General availability announced October 1, 2020.
• Minimum Requirements: As a cloud-based service, specific hardware or operating system requirements are not applicable for end-users. Access requires a compatible web browser and an internet connection.
• Supported Operating Systems: OS-agnostic, accessible via standard web browsers on any operating system.
• Latest Stable Version: The current live version provided by Smartsheet, subject to continuous updates.
• End of Support Date: Not publicly specified; support is typically tied to active Smartsheet Enterprise or Premier plan subscriptions.
• End of Life Date: Not publicly specified; it is an actively developed and supported product.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable; as a SaaS product, updates are automatic and continuous.
• License Type: Subscription License. It is included with Smartsheet Enterprise and Premier plans, or as part of Advanced Work Management.
• Deployment Model: Hosted (SaaS).

Technical Requirements

Smartsheet Bridge operates as a cloud-based service, meaning the primary technical infrastructure is managed by Smartsheet. End-users interact with the service through a web browser.

• RAM: Not applicable for end-user devices.
• Processor: Not applicable for end-user devices.
• Storage: Not applicable for end-user devices.
• Display: Standard display resolution suitable for web applications.
• Ports: Standard network ports for internet access.
• Operating System: Any operating system capable of running a modern web browser (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, Android).

Analysis: The technical requirements for Smartsheet Bridge are minimal for the end-user. The service's performance and stability depend on Smartsheet's cloud infrastructure. Users require only a reliable internet connection and a compatible web browser, making it highly accessible across various devices and platforms.

Support & Compatibility

Smartsheet Bridge offers broad compatibility through its web-based nature and extensive integration capabilities, with support provided through Smartsheet's premium offerings.

• Latest Version: Continuously updated by Smartsheet.
• OS Support: Compatible with any operating system that supports modern web browsers.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated, but support is integral to Smartsheet Enterprise and Premier plan subscriptions.
• Localization: Smartsheet, the platform Bridge integrates with, supports multiple languages including English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Japanese. Bridge itself can facilitate multilingual workflows through integrations like Google Translate.
• Available Drivers: Not applicable; integrations are managed via APIs and pre-built connectors within the Bridge interface.

Analysis: Smartsheet Bridge demonstrates strong compatibility due to its SaaS deployment model, eliminating the need for specific OS or driver installations. Its ability to integrate with various third-party systems via APIs and pre-built connectors, including Google Translate, enhances its utility in diverse operational environments. Support is a component of Smartsheet's premium plans, indicating a tiered support structure.

Security Status

Smartsheet Bridge leverages the security framework of the broader Smartsheet platform, focusing on secure access and data handling within its cloud environment.

• Security Features: Login security settings for Bridge extend from Smartsheet, including options for Single Sign-On (SSO) like SAML.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities for Smartsheet Bridge are highlighted in publicly available information.
• Blacklist Status: No information regarding blacklist status is available.
• Certifications: Specific certifications for Bridge are not detailed, but Smartsheet as a platform adheres to various security standards.
• Encryption Support: All user data processed by Bridge workflows is stored in AWS for up to 30 days, implying standard cloud security practices including data encryption in transit and at rest.
• Authentication Methods: Primarily uses Smartsheet authentication, supporting email/password and various single sign-on options.
• General Recommendations: It is recommended to grant Bridge access only to users responsible for building and maintaining workflows, as all other users can benefit from the workflows without direct Bridge access.

Analysis: Smartsheet Bridge benefits from the robust security measures of the Smartsheet platform and its underlying AWS infrastructure. Strong authentication methods, including SSO, are supported. Data handling practices, such as temporary storage in AWS, suggest adherence to cloud security best practices. The recommendation to limit direct user access to workflow builders enhances security by reducing potential exposure.

Performance & Benchmarks

Smartsheet Bridge's performance is primarily measured by its effectiveness in automating and streamlining complex business processes, rather than traditional hardware benchmarks.

• Benchmark Scores: No specific benchmark scores are publicly available for Smartsheet Bridge.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: Focuses on automating routine tasks, increasing efficiency and accuracy, and reducing manual errors. Workflows are triggered by defined criteria, such as dates or scheduled events. The platform is designed to handle complex workflows and scale automation across an organization.
• Power Consumption: Not applicable for an end-user SaaS product.
• Carbon Footprint: Not applicable for an end-user SaaS product.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Users note its similarity to integration platforms like Zapier but highlight its enhanced control over workflow timing and deeper integration within the Smartsheet ecosystem.

Analysis: Smartsheet Bridge excels in automating multi-step, cross-platform processes, significantly reducing manual effort and improving data accuracy. Its performance is directly tied to the efficiency and reliability of the workflows it enables. While it offers scalability, users should be aware of potential API rate limits when designing very high-volume operations. The ability to build flexible, customizable workflows contributes to its overall performance in diverse business scenarios.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback on Smartsheet Bridge highlights its power in automation but also points to areas for improvement in documentation and support.

• Strengths:
  • No-code/low-code solution for building complex workflows.
  • Automates repetitive tasks, saving time and increasing efficiency.
  • Connects multiple systems and platforms, enabling cross-platform data flow.
  • Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for workflow creation.
  • Offers flexible and customizable workflows to fit specific business processes.
  • Helps eliminate manual entry errors, improving accuracy.
  • Provides more granular control over workflow timing compared to standard Smartsheet automations.
  • Powerful tool for advanced Smartsheet users to extend platform capabilities.
• Weaknesses:
  • Perceived lack of comprehensive documentation and step-by-step setup videos.
  • Smartsheet's Pro Desk support does not cover Bridge, leading users to community forums for help.
  • Can be complex for beginners, requiring a learning curve.
  • Limited user roles (only System Admin type) and no current way to restrict integrations within Bridge.
  • No direct restore option for deleted workspaces.
  • API rate limits can be a consideration for very high-volume operations.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Automating multi-step, cross-platform business processes.
  • Connecting data across disparate systems to create a unified view.
  • Real-time translation of content using integrations like Google Translate.
  • Integrating with enterprise systems such as ServiceNow and SharePoint.
  • Automating the updating and management of Smartsheet Groups.
  • Creating audit trails and historical records of status updates within Smartsheet.
  • Reading and pushing data between Smartsheet and other applications like Gitlab or Resource Management.

Summary

Smartsheet Bridge is a powerful, cloud-based automation engine that enables organizations to build complex, no-code/low-code workflows across various systems. Released in October 2020, it functions as a subscription-based add-on to Smartsheet's Enterprise and Premier plans, offering a flexible and intuitive drag-and-drop interface for automating routine tasks and integrating data.

Its primary strength lies in its ability to connect disparate data sources and orchestrate multi-step processes, significantly enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and reducing manual errors. Bridge is OS-agnostic, accessible via any modern web browser, and supports a range of integrations including Google Translate, ServiceNow, and SharePoint, extending its utility for global and diverse teams.

Security is managed through Smartsheet's platform, utilizing robust authentication methods like SAML and storing workflow data temporarily in AWS, adhering to cloud security best practices. While it offers significant performance gains through automation and scalability, users should be mindful of API rate limits in high-volume scenarios.

User feedback consistently praises its ability to eliminate manual workarounds and provide granular control over automations. However, some users note a need for more comprehensive documentation and dedicated support, as Pro Desk support does not currently cover Bridge. The single System Admin user type and lack of granular integration restrictions are also points of feedback.

Overall, Smartsheet Bridge is an invaluable tool for enterprises seeking to optimize workflows, integrate systems, and drive innovation by automating repetitive tasks. It is particularly recommended for organizations with complex, cross-platform processes that require a high degree of customization and control.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.