How to integrate third party apps on Slack

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

Integrate third-party apps on Slack by navigating to your workspace settings, clicking Apps, then browsing or searching for the desired app and following the authorization prompts. Most integrations require admin approval and may need additional configuration within the app's settings.

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Prerequisites

Slack workspace admin or owner permissions
Active Slack workspace
Third-party app account or API credentials
Basic understanding of Slack workspace settings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Access the Slack App Directory

Click your workspace name in the top left corner of Slack, then select Settings & administration > Manage apps. This will open the Slack App Directory in your browser where you can browse available integrations.

You can also visit slack.com/apps directly to browse apps before installing them.

Search for Your Desired App

Use the search bar at the top of the App Directory to find your specific third-party service (like Google Drive, Trello, or Zoom). Browse through categories like Productivity, Developer Tools, or Project Management if you're exploring options.

Check the app's rating and reviews before installing to ensure it meets your needs.

Install the App

Click on the app you want to integrate, then click the green Install or Add to Slack button. Review the permissions the app is requesting, such as access to channels, user information, or the ability to post messages.

Some apps may require workspace admin approval - if so, click 'Request to Install' instead.

Authorize the Integration

You'll be redirected to the third-party service's authorization page. Log in to your account for that service and click Allow or Authorize to grant Slack access. This creates the connection between your Slack workspace and the external service.

Configure App Settings

Return to Slack and look for a configuration message from the newly installed app, or type /[appname] in any channel to access setup commands. Configure which channels the app can access, notification preferences, and any service-specific settings like project connections or user mappings.

Many apps send a welcome message with setup instructions after installation.

Test the Integration

Send a test command or perform an action to ensure the integration works properly. For example, try /zoom to start a meeting, or check if file sharing from Google Drive appears in your channel. Verify that notifications and two-way sync are functioning as expected.

Test in a private channel first to avoid spamming your team during setup.

Set Up Team Access

Go to your workspace's Settings & administration > Manage apps > Installed apps and click on your newly integrated app. Configure which team members can use the app and set any usage restrictions or channel-specific permissions.

Consider creating a dedicated channel for app notifications to keep other channels focused.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

App installation fails with permission denied error

Contact your Slack workspace admin to install the app or request permission. Only workspace owners and admins can install apps by default unless this setting has been changed in Settings & administration > Workspace settings.

Third-party service won't authorize or connect

Ensure you're logged into the correct account for the third-party service and that your account has the necessary permissions. Try clearing your browser cache and cookies, then restart the authorization process.

App commands don't work after installation

Type /apps in any channel to see available app commands, or check if the app requires additional configuration. Some apps need you to connect specific projects or accounts before commands become active.

App notifications are too frequent or in wrong channels

Visit the app's settings by typing /[appname] settings or going to Apps in your sidebar. Adjust notification frequency, filter types of alerts, or change which channels receive notifications.

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