Jira and Azure DevOps integrations generally fall under two categories:
- Development Information Integration: Designed for synchronizing code-related data, version control information, and build/release pipelines between Jira and Microsoft Azure DevOps.
- Work Item Integration: Focused on synchronizing tasks, issues, and other work items between Jira and Azure DevOps, ensuring that project management data is consistent across both systems.
The following methods represent some of the most effective ways to achieve these integrations:
1. Azure DevOps for Jira App (Official App)
This is the official integration app developed and maintained by Atlassian, available on the Atlassian Marketplace. It's designed to be the most user-friendly option for connecting Jira and Azure DevOps, especially for teams who prefer a plug-and-play solution.
Pros
✅ User-friendly interface with guided setup
✅ Pre-built configurations for common scenarios
✅ Backed by Atlassian, so you can expect ongoing updates and support (not sure how quickly)
Cons
❌ Limited customization options
❌ May not be ideal for complex or highly specific workflows
❌ Supports only Jira Cloud and Azure DevOps Cloud
2. REST APIs (Custom Integration)
If you need total control over the integration, the REST APIs of Jira and Azure DevOps might be your best option. You can also use custom scripts (e.g., in Python, PowerShell) to programmatically automate actions between Jira and ADO after integration.
Pros
✅ Virtually no limitations on data exchange or automation
✅ Full control over every aspect of the integration
✅ Can be a cost-effective option if you have in-house scripting talent
Cons
❌ Requires a skilled developer with API knowledge
❌ Can be time-consuming to develop and maintain
❌ Some features may not sync seamlessly
❌ Requires a high level of technical expertise
3. Workflow Automation Tools
Platforms like Zapier, Make (formerly Integromat), and Automate.io offer Jira-ADO connectors. These tools leverage the APIs and webhooks provided by both Jira and Azure DevOps to create automated workflows. They work by:
- Using webhooks to detect specific events or triggers in one system (e.g., a new issue created in Jira)
- Making API calls to perform corresponding actions in the other system (e.g., creating a work item in Azure DevOps)
This API-based approach allows for flexible and customizable integrations without requiring direct access to either system's backend.
Pros
✅ Pre-built templates for common API-based integration scenarios
✅ Flexibility to create custom workflows using various API endpoints
✅ Can integrate multiple tools beyond just Jira and Azure DevOps
Cons
❌ Can have steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with APIs
❌ May have limits on the number of API calls or data transfer volume, especially in free or lower-tier plans offer limited
❌ Potential for increased latency in data syncing compared to native integrations
4. Third-Party Integrations on Atlassian Marketplace
Another option are third-party integrations such as Move Work Forward, available on the Atlassian Marketplace. These tools are optimized specifically for Jira-Azure DevOps connections and offer unique benefits like:
- Tailored field mappings that understand the nuances of both Jira and Azure DevOps data structures
- Ability to handle complex project hierarchies and work item relationships specific to each platform
- Reduced API calls through intelligent caching and change detection mechanisms
These tools can be particularly valuable for teams heavily invested in both Jira and Azure DevOps, especially those with complex workflows or high data volumes.
Pros
✅ Easy to use, even with limited technical knowledge
✅ Optimized performance for Jira-Azure DevOps synchronization
✅ Deep integration capabilities handling complex workflows
✅ Dedicated support teams usually made up of Atlassian experts
✅ Can support Jira Data Center and Azure DevOps On-Premise
Cons
❌ Potential risks if the app doesn't have SOC 2 Type II Certification and other security features
❌ May be less customizable than using APIs or custom scripts
FREE Trial | Jira and Azure DevOps Integration By Move Work Forward
Track branches, pull requests, commits, deployments, and builds directly within Jira via our integration with Azure DevOps.
Here are some of the things you can do with our integration:
- Create Azure DevOps branch from Jira
- Extract Azure DevOps pipeline stages into Jira
- Integrate Azure DevOps YAML pipelines deployments with Jira
- Use Azure DevOps for Jira with Jira Automation
- And more
Try it for free today – find Azure DevOps for Jira on the Atlassian Marketplace and follow the instructions to get started.
You can also watch our How to Integrate Azure DevOps & Jira Software video or read this guide for more info.
If you need more help, request a free demo, and we'll get back to you ASAP.
In the meantime, explore other Move Work Forward integrations below:
