In today’s fast-paced digital environment, businesses rely heavily on tools like Jira and Confluence to streamline processes, improve collaboration, and deliver results. However, no two teams or businesses are alike, and the ability to customize these tools to fit specific workflows is key to maximizing their potential. This is where Atlassian Forge, Atlassian’s cloud app development platform, steps in to simplify and supercharge app development.
This guide will take you through the essentials of Forge, why it’s a game-changer for developers, and how you can leverage it to build powerful apps that enhance your Jira and Confluence experience.
What Is Atlassian Forge?
Atlassian Forge is a modern, cloud-based platform that allows developers to create custom apps for Jira and Confluence. It simplifies the app development process by managing hosting, scaling, and security, enabling developers to focus solely on coding and innovation.
Unlike traditional app development, which requires provisioning servers, managing databases, and ensuring scalability, Forge simplifies the process by allowing developers to host their apps directly on Atlassian’s infrastructure. As an Atlassian Partner, MicroGenesis leverages Forge’s serverless functions to reduce operational overhead and deliver scalable, efficient app development solutions.
In short, Forge empowers developers to:
- Extend the functionality of Jira and Confluence effortlessly.
- Build secure and scalable apps without the need for extensive infrastructure management.
- Focus on delivering innovative solutions tailored to specific use cases.
Why Choose Forge for App Development?
Developing apps for Atlassian products has never been easier, thanks to Forge’s unique features. Let’s explore the key reasons why Forge is the go-to platform for app development:
1. Seamless Hosting
Forge apps are hosted on Atlassian’s platform, eliminating the need for third-party hosting or database provisioning. This built-in hosting ensures optimal performance, scalability, and security.
2. Serverless Functionality
Forge uses a serverless architecture, allowing developers to focus on writing business logic without worrying about server management. This leads to faster development cycles and fewer operational challenges.
3. Deep Integration
Forge apps integrate deeply with Jira and Confluence, enabling developers to enhance functionality without compromising user experience. The platform supports customization of dashboards, workflows, and even custom fields.
4. Built-in Security
Atlassian ensures that Forge apps comply with its stringent security standards. Developers can build with confidence, knowing that their apps will adhere to industry best practices.
5. Rapid Development
With pre-built templates, APIs, and a streamlined development environment, Forge allows developers to create apps quickly and efficiently.
6. Eco-Friendly Development
Forge’s cloud-based infrastructure is designed to minimize the environmental footprint by leveraging efficient serverless computing resources.
Benefits of Building Forge Apps
Building apps with Forge unlocks a host of benefits for developers and businesses alike:
1. Improved User Experience
Forge apps integrate directly into the Atlassian ecosystem, offering seamless functionality that feels native to Jira and Confluence. This ensures a smooth user experience, reducing friction and boosting productivity for users and Jira implementation consultants alike.
2. Security and Compliance
With Atlassian handling infrastructure and security, developers can rest assured that their apps meet the highest standards. This is especially important for industries with strict compliance requirements, such as healthcare, finance, and government.
3. Scalability
Forge’s serverless architecture automatically scales to meet demand, ensuring consistent performance even during high usage periods.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
By eliminating the need for hosting and server management, Forge significantly reduces the operational costs associated with app development.
5. Versatility and Customization
From workflow validators to custom macros, Forge supports a wide range of use cases. Developers can create tailored solutions that address specific business challenges.
What Can You Build with Forge?
Forge is a versatile platform that supports a variety of app types. Here are some of the possibilities:
1. Jira Admin Pages
These modules allow developers to add custom items to the Apps section of the Jira admin settings. When clicked, these items render content on a new Jira page, enabling admins to interact with custom interfaces or data.
2. Workflow Validators and Conditions
Forge makes it possible to add custom logic to Jira workflows. For instance, you can ensure certain conditions are met before a workflow transition occurs, improving process automation and accountability.
3. Event Listeners
With Forge, you can create listeners that trigger custom actions when specific events occur in Jira or Confluence. For example, you might send notifications or update a database when an issue is assigned to a user.
4. Macros for Confluence
Forge enables developers to create custom macros that insert dynamic content into Confluence pages. These macros enhance the way teams interact with content, making collaboration more effective.
5. Custom Fields
Forge apps can introduce custom fields that automatically calculate values based on Jira issues, offering new ways to analyze and visualize data.
6. API Integrations
Forge supports integration with Jira Cloud APIs, allowing developers to bring in external data or functionality seamlessly.
How to Get Started with Forge
Building a Forge app is straightforward, thanks to the platform’s user-friendly tools and documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Set Up Your Development Environment
- Install the Forge CLI.
- Log in to your Atlassian account using the CLI.
- Use the
forge createcommand to initialize a new app.
Step 2: Choose a Template
Forge provides several templates for common app types, such as macros, admin pages, and workflows. Select the template that best suits your use case.
Step 3: Write Your Code
Forge apps are written in JavaScript, making them accessible to developers with basic web development knowledge. Use the Forge UI kit to design interfaces and implement functionality.
Step 4: Test Your App
Use the forge deploy and forge install commands to test your app in a staging environment. Forge also supports local development, allowing you to preview changes before deployment.
Step 5: Publish Your App
Once your app is ready, submit it to the Atlassian Marketplace for distribution. Atlassian’s review process ensures your app meets quality and security standards.
Real-World Applications of Forge Apps
1. Automated Reporting
Create a Forge app that generates and emails custom reports based on Jira data, saving time and improving decision-making.
2. Team Performance Dashboards
Build dashboards that display key performance indicators (KPIs) for your team, pulling data from Jira and Confluence.
3. Compliance Management
Develop apps that automate compliance workflows, ensuring your organization meets industry regulations.
4. Enhanced Collaboration
Use macros to create interactive Confluence pages that improve how teams collaborate on projects.
Why MicroGenesis Chooses Forge
At MicroGenesis, we specialize in leveraging Forge to deliver tailored solutions for our clients. As an Atlassian Platinum Partner, we have the expertise to build secure, scalable apps that address unique business challenges.
Our team uses Forge to:
- Develop custom dashboards and workflows.
- Automate repetitive tasks to save time.
- Enhance collaboration by integrating third-party tools with Jira and Confluence.
Final Thoughts
Atlassian Forge is more than just a development platform—it’s a catalyst for innovation. By simplifying the app development process, Forge empowers businesses to unlock the full potential of Jira and Confluence with customized solutions.
At MicroGenesis, a leading Atlassian Solution Partner and one of the Top Custom Software Development Companies, we specialize in creating tailored Forge apps that enhance your Atlassian experience. Whether you need unique solutions or want to explore our offerings on the Atlassian Marketplace, we’re here to help with top-tier Atlassian solutions.
Got a unique use case? Let’s work together to solve it. Contact us today to take the first step towards transforming your Atlassian experience.
