Nexa Lab Blog – Autotask is a professional service automation (PSA) software widely used by managed service provider (MSP) businesses. Managing customer interactions and tasks through email is a critical aspect of daily operations for MSPs.

But if you are using Autotask for ticketing and billing, how do you manage your customer interaction using email through a single window?

Autotask Outlook plugin may be the answer you seek. This integration plugin lets you connect these two important tools. With the plugin, you can manage your customer relationships and service tasks more efficiently using Autotask and Microsoft Outlook.

Let’s explore how this plugin can help you simplify your workflow, starting with learning what this plugin is.

What is the Autotask Outlook Plugin?

The Autotask Outlook Plugin is a tool designed to integrate Autotask with Microsoft Outlook, facilitating a more streamlined workflow for MSP professionals.

This plugin allows you to manage your Autotask tasks, tickets, and customer interactions directly from your Outlook interface. Embedding Autotask functionalities within Outlook can reduce your need to switch between applications.

With the Autotask Outlook Plugin, you can easily convert emails into Autotask tickets or tasks, ensuring that no important communication or service request is overlooked.

This integration also allows you to attach relevant emails to existing tickets, providing a comprehensive view of all interactions related to a particular issue or project.

The ability to manage Autotask functionalities within Outlook means you can respond to customer enquiries and update service tasks without leaving your email client, making your workflow more efficient and cohesive.

The plugin supports various features, such as time tracking, note-taking, and task management.

You can track the time spent on different tasks directly from Outlook, which is especially useful for billing and productivity analysis.

Adding notes to tickets and tasks directly from your email ensures that all relevant information is captured and centralised within Autotask, reducing the risk of miscommunication and data loss.

More on Nexalab’s blog: Autotask PSA Integration, Everything You Need to Know to Connect Your Business Functions

Compatibility and Requirements

According to the official Datto Autotask support page, the plugin is designed to work with Microsoft Outlook versions 2016 and later, including Office 365. This broad compatibility ensures that most MSP professionals can leverage the plugin regardless of their specific Outlook version.

To use the plugin, you need to have an active Autotask account with the appropriate permissions to integrate with external applications.

Your IT environment should support the integration, meaning your Outlook and Autotask systems need to be configured correctly to communicate with each other. This includes ensuring that your network settings and security protocols allow for the necessary data exchange between the two applications.

Additionally, the plugin requires a stable internet connection to function correctly, as it relies on real-time data synchronisation between Outlook and Autotask.

How to Use the Autotask Outlook Plugin

Using the Autotask Outlook Plugin is straightforward, but it requires a few initial setup steps.

First, download and install the plugin from the Autotask website or through your Outlook add-ins store. The installation process is simple and typically involves following on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Once installed, open Outlook and find the Autotask tab in your toolbar.

This tab provides access to all the plugin’s features and functionalities. From there, you will need to log in using your Autotask credentials. This step ensures that the plugin is connected to your Autotask account and can access your tasks, tickets, and customer data.

After logging in, you can start linking your emails to Autotask tickets or tasks.

To do this, simply open an email, select the Autotask tab, and choose the appropriate action, such as creating a ticket or updating an existing one. The plugin allows you to attach emails to tasks, add notes, and track time directly from your email interface.

For example, if you receive an email from a customer requesting support, you can create a new Autotask ticket directly from the email.

The plugin will automatically populate the ticket with relevant details from the email, such as the sender’s information and the email content. You can then add any additional notes or details and assign the ticket to the appropriate team member.

The plugin also allows you to update existing tickets with new information or attach additional emails to provide context and continuity. That feature can help you make sure all communications related to a specific issue are centralised within Autotask. Make it easier to track.

Benefits of Using the Autotask Outlook Plugin

The Autotask Outlook Plugin offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your workflow.

One of the primary advantages is the time saved by reducing the need to switch between Outlook and Autotask. This integration allows you to manage tickets and tasks directly from your email, making it easier to keep track of customer interactions and service requests.

Another significant benefit is improved data accuracy. This integration links the Autotask ticket and task data to email. All relevant information from your emails can be directly linked to Autotask, making sure that nothing is missed. That helps maintain accurate records and ensures that all customer interactions are documented and easily accessible.

The plugin also enhances collaboration among team members.

It provides a centralized location for communication and task management. With the plugin, your team members can easily stay informed and up-to-date on the status of various tasks and tickets.

In addition to these benefits, the Autotask Outlook Plugin can also help improve productivity by streamlining your workflow. You don’t need to switch between applications anymore. Now you can manage your Autotask tasks directly from Outlook using the plugin.

Furthermore, the plugin’s time tracking feature can help you better understand how your time is being spent and identify areas for improvement.

More on Nexalab’s blog: Does Autotask Have RMM Features? All you Need to Know

Conclusion

Integrating Autotask with Outlook using the Autotask Outlook Plugin can transform the way you manage your MSP business. The plugin increases productivity and efficiency by simplifying your process and improving communication. Investing in PSA software is a smart move for any MSP looking to improve their operational efficiency.

However, to get the most out of your PSA, it needs to work with your other tools.

Nexalab’s App Integration Services can help you connect your PSA with other essential platforms, like CRM software, for example. This means you get a complete view of your operation, automate repetitive tasks, and personalise your customer interactions. It’s a solution that helps you get the most out of your PSA investment.Contact Nexalab today to explore how App Fusion can drive your business forward.