In today's interconnected digital landscape, seamless third-party integrations have become paramount. As businesses and individuals navigate an ever-expanding array of software solutions, the ability to create cohesive workflows across multiple platforms is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. This integration trend has permeated every corner of the tech world, from project management tools to customer relationship management systems. By allowing different applications to communicate and share data effortlessly, organizations can streamline processes, boost productivity, and create a more unified user experience. The demand for such interoperability has become a driving force in software development and adoption strategies across industries.
Video conferencing applications, being at the forefront of remote collaboration tools, have not been immune to this integration revolution. As the world shifted towards distributed work models, the need for video conferencing solutions to integrate with other productivity tools became increasingly apparent. Users now need their virtual meeting platforms to seamlessly connect with calendar systems, project management software, and team communication tools. This trend has made video call companies add more connections to other work tools. This helps users get more work done in one place.
Zoom
Zoom, a video conferencing platform founded in 2011, offers audio and video capabilities for meetings, webinars, and collaborative sessions. As businesses have increasingly adopted various digital tools, the need for integration between these tools has grown. In response to this trend, Zoom has developed connections with certain third-party applications commonly used in professional environments. The platform provides basic features similar to other video communication tools, is also attempting to incorporate some integrations.
While these integrations aim to address the need for interconnected business solutions, their effectiveness leaves a large room for improvement. Users frequently encounter limitations and inconsistencies, suggesting a state of limited degree of integrations today..
Zoom’s Integrations
Zoom offers integrations with some third-party applications. While these integrations cover basic functionalities, they often lack the depth and reliability that many users require for seamless workflow integration.
These are some of the integrations Zoom allows.
Google Calendar
Zoom provides an integration option with Google Calendar, trying to simplifying the scheduling process. You can link Zoom to Google Calendar through the Zoom Marketplace. This lets you easily add Zoom meeting info to your Google Calendar events. The integration attempts to auto-populate meeting links and dial-in information, potentially reducing manual input.
How to set up Zoom and Google Calendar integration?
- Sign in to your Zoom account
- Go to the Zoom Marketplace
- Search for and select the Google Calendar integration
- Click "Install" or "Add"
- Follow prompts to authorize Zoom access to your Google account
- Grant necessary permissions for calendar access
- Once connected, go to Google Calendar
- When creating or editing an event, look for:
- An option to add Zoom meeting details
- A dropdown menu to select Zoom for video conferencing
User Review for Zoom - Google Calendar Integration:
User experiences with the Zoom-Google Calendar integration seem to be mixed. Some report syncing issues, where changes made in Zoom settings don't immediately show up in Google Calendar, or vice versa. Others mention limitations in customizing meeting options directly within Google Calendar.
There are also reports that some advanced Zoom features can't be accessed through the Google Calendar interface. As is often the case with software integrations, the functionality may not fully meet every user's specific needs or expectations. It's important to keep these potential limitations in mind when using the integration.
Outlook
Zoom provides integration with Microsoft Outlook, aiming to streamline meeting scheduling for Outlook users, who are often part of Microsoft Teams workspaces. This integration requires a Zoom add-in for Outlook, typically available through the Microsoft Store or via organizational IT departments.
How to set up Zoom and Microsoft Outlook integration?
- Sign in to your Zoom account
- Go to the Zoom Download Center or Microsoft Store
- Find and download the Zoom add-in for Outlook
- Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions
- Open Outlook and look for the Zoom tab or icon
- Click on the Zoom option and follow prompts to sign in to your Zoom account
- Authorize the connection between Zoom and Outlook
- Restart Outlook to ensure all changes are applied
- Test the integration by:
- Scheduling a Zoom meeting directly from Outlook
- Checking if you can join meetings from Outlook cal endar reminders
User Review for Zoom - Microsoft Outlook Integration:
User experiences with this integration appear mixed. While it offers convenience, some users report stability issues and conflicts between Zoom settings and Outlook's native features.
It's advisable to consult your IT department or review the latest documentation from Zoom and Microsoft before implementing this integration. This ensures you understand current features, limitations, and best practices for your specific use case.
Calendly
Zoom offers an integration option with Calendly, a popular scheduling automation platform. This integration aims to streamline the process of booking appointments with automatically included Zoom meeting links.
How to set up Zoom and Calendly integration?
- Log into your Calendly account
- Go to "Integrations" in Calendly settings
- Find and select the Zoom integration
- Click "Connect" or "Add Integration"
- Authorize Calendly to access your Zoom account
- Choose which Calendly event types should include Zoom meetings
- Configure any additional settings (e.g., meeting duration defaults)
- Test the integration by creating a new Calendly event
User Review for Zoom - Calendly Integration:
Users have reported some issues with the Zoom-Calendly integration. Common complaints include occasional failures in automatic Zoom link generation, sync problems between the two platforms, and disruptions caused by software updates. Some find the setup and troubleshooting processes challenging. There are also limitations in customizing Zoom settings through Calendly. While the integration is helpful for many, these technical issues have led some users to consider alternatives or return to manual scheduling methods.
Slack
Zoom provides an integration option with Slack, aiming to bridge text-based and video communication functionalities.
How to set up Zoom and Slack integration?
- Go to Slack App Directory or Zoom Marketplace
- Search for and select the integration
- Click "Add to Slack" or "Install"
- Authorize connection between Zoom and Slack accounts
- Grant necessary permissions
- Configure basic settings (e.g., notification preferences)
- Test by initiating a Zoom meeting from Slack
User Review for Zoom - Slack Integration:
User experiences with this integration have been mixed. While it offers convenience, some users report issues such as inconsistent meeting notifications in Slack and difficulties managing Zoom settings through the Slack interface. Some users find the integration lacks advanced features, like the ability to easily modify Zoom meeting settings directly from Slack. These limitations can lead to workflow disruptions, requiring users to switch between platforms more often than desired. As a result, the efficiency gains the integration aims to provide may be reduced for some users. As with any integration, it's important to consider these potential limitations when implementing it in your workflow.
Fathom
Zoom offers an integration with Fathom, an AI-powered note-taking application, aiming to enhance virtual meetings by combining Fathom's capabilities with Zoom's video communication functionality.
How to set up Zoom and Fathom integration?
- Go to Zoom Marketplace or Fathom's website
- Search for and select the integration
- Click "Install" or "Connect"
- Log in to both Zoom and Fathom accounts
- Grant necessary permissions
- Configure basic settings for transcription and analysis
- Test the integration in a Zoom meeting
User Review for Zoom - Fathom Integration:
User experiences with this integration have been mixed. While it offers advanced note-taking and analysis features, some users have expressed privacy concerns regarding AI-powered transcription and analysis of meetings. There have also been reports of limitations in transcription accuracy and the relevance of automatically extracted action items.
If you want, we have a detailed take on Zoom products.
Top Zoom Alternatives with better integrations
These are the top Zoom alternatives that also offer integrations with third-party applications: Feta, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Cisco Webex, RingCentral Video:
- Feta
- Microsoft Teams
- Google Meet
- Cisco Webex
- RingCentral Video
Let’s explore the integrations possible with each of these alternatives.
Feta
Feta is an AI-native video conferencing tool designed to streamline your entire meeting workflow through seamless integrations with popular productivity tools. Unlike Zoom, which often requires separate add-ons, Feta offers built-in connections to enhance your pre-meeting, in-meeting, and post-meeting experiences.
Key Integrations and Features:
- Slack Integration:
- Automatically share meeting summaries and action items in designated Slack channels
- Start Feta meetings directly from Slack conversations
- Receive meeting reminders and join with one click from Slack - Linear Integration:
- Create and assign tasks in Linear directly from Feta meetings
- Link discussions to relevant Linear issues for easy context tracking
- Update project statuses in Linear based on meeting outcomes - Google Calendar Integration:
- Schedule Feta meetings directly from Google Calendar
- Automatically add meeting links and details to calendar invites
- Sync meeting notes and action items with Google Calendar events - Additional Integrations:
- Seamless connections with other tools in the Google Workspace ecosystem
- Integration with project management tools beyond Linear
- Compatibility with popular CRM systems for sales and customer service teams - AI-Powered Features Across Integrations:
- Automated meeting summaries shared across connected platforms
- Real-time transcription and translation accessible in all integrated tools
- Context-aware suggestions for task creation and follow-ups
With Feta deep integrations, your video calls become a central hub for productivity, connecting seamlessly with the tools your team already uses. This integrated approach ensures that every meeting contributes directly to your workflow, keeping teams aligned and projects moving forward efficiently.
Pricing
Feta is launching an exclusive early access program. Selected users will test new features and receive personalized support to integrate Feta into their workflow. Spots are limited. Apply now to be among the first to experience and shape the future of virtual collaboration.
Checkout this honest comparison of Zoom vs. Feta.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams offers integration with various third-party applications, particularly within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Its framework allows for custom integrations, which can be beneficial for organizations with specific workflow needs.
Teams integrations can connect with productivity, project management, and communication tools. However, the effectiveness and user experience may vary. Some integrations might not offer full standalone app functionality, and updates can occasionally disrupt performance.
Setting up and managing integrations requires technical expertise, potentially challenging for smaller organizations. While basic integrations are often included with standard Teams licenses, some third-party options requires separate subscriptions or payments.
Organizations should evaluate their specific needs, potential benefits, and associated costs when considering Teams integrations. Reviewing current documentation from Microsoft and third-party vendors is advisable to understand features, limitations, and pricing.
If you interested, here's a handy list of top Microsoft Teams alternatives.
We have curated a very honest comparison of Microsoft Teams vs. Feta
Also see how Microsoft Teams compares with Zoom and Google Meet in, Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams and Google Meet vs. Microsoft Teams.
Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams pricing, compares the pricing structure of the two applications.
Google Meet
Google Meet offers integration capabilities, particularly within the Google Workspace ecosystem. The platform provides APIs for custom integrations and connects with some third-party applications.
When enabled, these integrations allows users to schedule meetings directly from Google Calendar, access files from Google Drive during calls, or use certain third-party apps within the Meet interface.
The setup process involves enabling integrations through Google Workspace admin settings or connecting authorized third-party apps, which requires administrative permissions depending on organizational policies.
There have been reports of limitations in customization options compared to some competing platforms. Some users have noted that while basic integrations work, more advanced or specialized integrations are less comprehensive.
Users face several limitations and user challenges with the integration. One key issue is inconsistent functionality across different devices and platforms, leading to frustration for users attempting to access certain features. Security concerns also arise when granting third-party apps access to Meet sessions, compromising sensitive information. Additionally, some users report performance issues, such as lag or audio problems, when using integrated apps during calls. The limited number of officially supported integrations restricts users' choices, forcing them to rely on workarounds or alternative solutions.
If Google Meet does not satisfy your needs anymore, check out top Google Meet alternatives.
Check out this fair and unbiased comparison of Google Meet vs.Feta
Also see how Google Meet compares to Zoom in, Zoom vs. Google Meet.
Zoom vs. Google Meet pricing, compares the pricing structure of the two applications.
Cisco Webex
Webex provides integration options with various business tools and productivity suites. The platform's App Hub offers a selection of pre-built integrations, and its API allows for some customization possibilities.
Users have the option to set up these integrations through the Webex App Hub or by working with their IT departments to develop custom solutions, depending on their organizational needs and technical capabilities.
When enabled, these integrations allow users to access third-party apps within the Webex interface, schedule meetings from other platforms, or share data between Webex and other business tools.
The setup process typically involves authorizing connections between Webex and other applications, which requires administrative permissions depending on organizational policies.
While Cisco Webex's integration with third-party applications offers expanded functionality, it presents several limitations and unique challenges for users. One significant issue is the complex API structure, which makes it difficult for developers to create seamless integrations. Users often face compatibility problems when trying to use certain third-party tools across different Webex environments (e.g., Meetings, Teams). Users also report synchronization issues between Webex and integrated apps, leading to data discrepancies or missed notifications.
Here's a very truthful comparison on how Feta leads over Webex in Cisco Webex vs. Feta.
We have curated a list of top Cisco Webex alternatives.
Zoom vs. Webex encompasses the comparison between the two.
RingCentral Video
RingCentral offers integration options with some business applications, including CRM systems, productivity tools, and team collaboration platforms. The platform provides an open approach that allows for some customization and development of integrations.
Users have the option to set up these integrations through RingCentral's app gallery, depending on their organizational needs and technical capabilities.
When enabled, these integrations allow users to make calls directly from CRM systems, schedule video meetings from productivity tools, or share communication data with team collaboration platforms.
Users integrating RingCentral video with third-party apps encounter several challenges. These include compatibility issues between different software versions, difficulties in properly configuring API settings, and problems with user authentication across platforms. Many users report inconsistent video quality or audio syncing issues when bridging RingCentral with other applications. Additionally, ensuring smooth data flow and maintaining end-to-end encryption across integrated systems is complex, leading to security concerns or compliance complications in regulated industries. Troubleshooting these integration issues often requires technical expertise, which can be time-consuming and frustrating for users seeking a smooth, unified communication experience.
Comparison
Application | Features | Limitations |
Feta | AI-native video conferencing, Slack integration, Linear integration, Google Calendar integration, other Google Workspace tools, CRM systems | In Early stage |
Zoom | Video conferencing, webinar capabilities, Google Calendar integration, Microsoft Outlook integration, Calendly integration, Slack integration, Fathom integration | Inconsistent and limited integration effectiveness, syncing issues, limited customization within integrated platforms, stability issues with Outlook, mixed user reviews |
Microsoft Teams | Integration with Microsoft 365, custom integration capabilities, connects with productivity and project management tools | Requires technical expertise for setup, performance issues with updates, some third-party integrations require additional subscriptions |
Google Meet | Integration within Google Workspace, API for custom integrations, Google Calendar integration, Google Drive access during calls | Limited customization, inconsistent functionality, security concerns with third-party apps, performance issues, limited official integrations |
Cisco Webex | Pre-built integrations via App Hub, API for custom solutions, access to third-party apps within Webex interface | Complex API structure, compatibility problems, synchronization issues, data discrepancies |
RingCentral Video | Integrations with CRM systems, productivity tools, team collaboration platforms, app gallery for setup | Compatibility issues, API configuration challenges, user authentication problems, inconsistent video/audio quality, complex data flow and security concerns |
Zoom Integration User Reviews
While Zoom offers integrations with various third-party applications, user feedback suggests there's significant room for improvement. The following points highlight common concerns and limitations reported by users regarding Zoom's integrations:
• Limited Customization:
- Lack of flexibility to adapt to specific workflow requirements
- Frustration for businesses with complex or unique processes
• Reliability and Stability Issues:
- Integrations sometimes fail to function as expected
- Problems range from minor syncing issues to major workflow disruptions
- Example: Zoom-Slack integration occasionally fails to post meeting notifications
• Insufficient Integration Depth:
- Basic functionalities covered, but advanced features often lacking
- Users forced to switch between interfaces or perform manual steps
- Example: Limited ability to modify Zoom settings from Google Calendar
• Challenging User Experience:
- Complex setup processes
- Unclear documentation
- Limited support for troubleshooting
- Particularly difficult for less tech-savvy users or smaller organizations
• Concerns about Integration Strategy:
- Perception of slower expansion of integration offerings compared to competitors
- Lack of responsiveness to user requests for specific integrations or features
- Example: Limited functionality with project management tools like Asana or Trello
Check out That's what you said, it is a collection of issues Zoom users faced and ended up posting on platforms like - G2, Reddit, X (Twitter), Capterra, etc.
If you are done with Zoom, learn about how to cancel Zoom.
Host Better Meetings with Feta
Remote work has transformed our daily lives into a series of virtual meetings, but many current video call tools are falling short of expectations. Users frequently encounter disruptions like constant updates and technical glitches during screen sharing, which interrupt their workflow. The much-hyped AI features often underwhelm, proving ineffective in truly enhancing the meeting experience.
Perhaps most frustrating is the poor integration with other work tools. Video platforms often fail to work seamlessly with other applications, forcing users to constantly switch between multiple apps.
These small frustrations accumulate over time, resulting in significant productivity losses. Users find themselves spending more time troubleshooting technology issues than engaging in actual productive work.
Recognizing these challenges, we are building Feta - an AI-native video conferencing tool. It aims to automate the entire meeting workflow, preserve context between meetings, offer seamless integration with other work tools, and provide a modern, user-friendly interface suitable for 2024's digital workspace needs.
Feta includes features such as precise AI-generated smart summaries, action items, real-time transcripts, translations, auto-tagged discussions, task management, a searchable knowledge library, and more.
Migrating from Zoom to Feta
Feta recognizes the challenges of adopting a new platform and is offering an attractive transition package. New users can enjoy up to three months of free service, equivalent to their current Zoom subscription. To take advantage of this offer, simply complete a brief online form.
For those curious about how Feta compares to Zoom, we've prepared a comprehensive, unbiased comparison Zoom vs. Feta. This side-by-side analysis highlights the key features and benefits of both platforms, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Currently, Feta is in its early access phase, with a controlled daily admission of new users. This presents a unique opportunity to be among the first to experience their innovative features, designed to streamline remote collaboration and boost productivity.
If you're keen to be part of this pioneering group, you can register your interest now. Once a spot becomes available, Feta team will promptly notify you, giving you the chance to explore this platform firsthand.