What are workflow automations?
Workflow automations connect an event (trigger) with an automated action.
Key Concepts:
Trigger: The event that starts the automation
Automatic Action: The task Bonsai performs when the trigger occurs
Examples:
Trigger: A client signs a contract
Action: Bonsai sends a welcome email automatically
Trigger: A client fills out a form
Action: Bonsai sends a meeting scheduling link automatically
Benefit: Automations allow you to build repeatable processes without manually sending emails or forms each time an event occurs.
Note: To confirm if your paid subscription has access to the workflow automations feature, visit our pricing page.
How to access the automations tab
Navigate to the Automations tab in the bottom-left sidebar of Bonsai.
If no automations exist:
You will be prompted to create a New Automation
If automations exist:
Click New Automation to create another workflow
How to set up an automation
After selecting New Automation, a pop-up window will appear.
Choose a Trigger – The event that initiates the automation
Choose an Action – The task Bonsai performs automatically after the trigger
Available Triggers
Triggers are the events that start an automation:
When a contract is signed
When a proposal is accepted
When a proposal is accepted or a contract is signed
When the first invoice of a project is paid
When a form is filled out
When a project is marked completed
Available Actions
Actions are the tasks Bonsai performs after a trigger:
Send a message (email)
Send a form
Send a meeting scheduling link using Bonsai Scheduler
Send your Calendly scheduling link
Common use case
Example Workflow:
A potential client fills out your intake form
Trigger occurs automatically
Bonsai sends a meeting scheduling link to the client
Client can book a call immediately without manual intervention
Optional: Embed the form on your website or send it directly to clients.
Tip: If you’re not familiar with the Forms feature, review the Bonsai Forms guide for additional setup instructions here.