Automation is key to boosting productivity and efficiency for businesses using Jira to manage projects, streamline IT operations, or track development workflows. Two of the most popular automation solutions for Jira are Jira Automation (built-in by Atlassian) and ScriptRunner (a powerful third-party add-on). While both tools enhance Jira’s capabilities, they serve different purposes and excel in various areas.

Zarpra’s Managed Atlassian Services helps businesses select, implement, and optimize automation tools that best align with their operational needs. This article will explore the key differences between Jira Automation and ScriptRunner and help you determine the best solution for your organization.

What Is Jira Automation?

Jira Automation is a built-in feature available across Jira Cloud, Jira Server, and Jira Data Center. It allows users to set up no-code, rule-based automation workflows that help teams reduce repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.

Key Features:

• No-Code Automation: User-friendly, drag-and-drop interface for easy rule creation.
• Triggers and Actions: Automate tasks based on specific events (e.g., issue creation, status change, or field update).
• Smart Values: Customize notifications, comments, and issue fields with dynamic content.
• Global Rules: Automate actions across multiple Jira projects.
• Audit Log: Track executed rules and troubleshoot issues quickly.

Best For:

• Businesses are looking for simple, no-code automation.
• Teams must automate common workflows (e.g., auto-assigning tasks, sending notifications, or auto-closing resolved issues).
• Organizations using Jira Cloud want to leverage built-in capabilities without extra costs.

Limitations:

• Limited Customization: Complex business logic can be challenging to implement.
• Execution Limits: Jira Cloud limits the number of automation executions based on your subscription plan.
• No Scripting Support: Limited flexibility for highly technical use cases.

What Is ScriptRunner for Jira?

ScriptRunner is a powerful Jira app for Jira Cloud, Servers, and Data Centers. It extends Jira’s automation capabilities by allowing users to write custom scripts (in Groovy) for complex workflows and advanced customizations.

Key Features:

• Custom Scripting: Write advanced automation scripts to handle particular use cases.
• Enhanced Workflow Conditions: Add custom validators, conditions, and post-functions to workflows.
• JQL (Jira Query Language) Extensions: Perform advanced issue searches and reporting.
• Scheduled Jobs: Set up recurring tasks and batch processes.
• REST API Integration: Connect Jira with external systems for advanced integrations.

Best For:

• Businesses that require complex customizations beyond what built-in automation offers.
• Organizations with dedicated technical teams or access to scripting expertise.
• Teams needing advanced integrations with external systems or other Atlassian tools.

Limitations:

• Technical Complexity: Requires knowledge of Groovy scripting.
• Higher Cost: Additional licensing fee compared to Jira’s built-in automation.
• Steeper Learning Curve: Requires more time and expertise to implement and maintain.

Jira Automation vs. ScriptRunner: A Feature Comparison

Which Should Your Business Choose?

Choose Jira Automation If:

• Your business needs simple and intuitive workflows.
• You want a cost-effective solution without additional licensing fees.
• Your team lacks coding expertise and requires a no-code solution.
• Your automation needs are limited to fundamental triggers and actions (e.g., status changes and notifications).

Choose ScriptRunner If:

• You require complex workflows that go beyond standard automation capabilities.
• You need to run custom scripts to automate advanced business logic.
• You want to extend Jira’s functionality with custom JQL queries and advanced integrations.
• Your organization operates on an enterprise scale and needs robust, scalable solutions.