Google Sheets is a powerful cloud-based spreadsheet application that enables businesses to store, organize, and analyze data collaboratively in real time. It integrates seamlessly with other Google Workspace applications and third-party tools, making it a versatile platform for various business tasks such as reporting, data entry, and project tracking. By integrating Google Sheets with Frends iPaaS, organizations can automate workflows, synchronize data with other systems, and bridge spreadsheets with enterprise applications to increase efficiency and accuracy.

Business use cases

Data synchronization with CRM systems

Google Sheets is commonly used to manage sales pipelines, leads, or opportunities. Frends can integrate Google Sheets with CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Dynamics 365 to keep data consistent across platforms. For example, when a new row is added to a sales tracking spreadsheet, Frends can create or update the corresponding contact or opportunity data in the CRM automatically.

Automated reporting and analytics

Many teams use Google Sheets to generate insights or share reports. Frends can extract data from various systems like ERPs or analytical platforms and automatically update Google Sheets. For instance, a Frends workflow can feed daily sales data into a designated Google Sheet and notify stakeholders when the report is ready, eliminating manual data entry.

Integration with ERP systems for financial data

Financial teams often use Google Sheets for budget tracking or expense reporting. Frends can integrate Google Sheets with ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks to synchronize data. For instance, expense data tracked in Google Sheets can automatically update the financial records in the ERP system, ensuring accurate reconciliation.

Integration with e-commerce platforms

Google Sheets can be used by e-commerce teams for order tracking and management. Frends can automate data flows between Google Sheets and platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento. For instance, when a new order is received, Frends can automatically add the order details to Google Sheets for tracking while syncing status updates back to the e-commerce platform.

Multichannel product management

For organizations managing products across multiple channels, Frends can automate updates between Google Sheets and product management platforms like Shopify, Amazon, or eBay. For instance, when product descriptions or prices are updated in Google Sheets, Frends can push these changes to all linked e-commerce stores, reducing manual effort and ensuring consistency.

Integration with payroll for attendance tracking

For businesses using Google Sheets to track employee attendance, Frends workflows can integrate it with payroll systems like ADP, Gusto, or Paychex. For instance, attendance data entered into a Google Sheet can be synced with the payroll system to calculate salary deductions or overtime payments.

Setup

Creating a Google Service Account JSON for Authentication

To enable Frends tasks to access Google Sheets, you need to create a Google service account and download its credentials as a JSON file. This file's contents are used for authentication when automating workflows with Frends.

Steps to create the service account JSON:

1. Go to the Google Cloud Console.
2. Select or create a project for your integration.
3. Navigate to IAM & Admin > Service Accounts.
4. Click Create Service Account and provide a name and description.
5. Assign the necessary roles (e.g., Editor or Sheets API User) to allow access to Google Sheets.
6. After creating the account, go to the service account details and select Keys.
7. Click Add Key > Create new key, choose JSON, and download the file.
8. Store this JSON file securely. You will use it in Frends tasks for authentication.

Using the Service Account JSON in Frends Tasks

When configuring Frends tasks to interact with Google Sheets, use the service account JSON in the task's authentication settings. The tasks use this file to authenticate API requests to Google Sheets securely and without manual login.

Note: Make sure the service account has access to the specific Google Sheets you want to automate. You may need to share the sheet with the service account's email address.