Adding Apps – Overview

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Introduction

Managing business apps doesn’t have to be complicated. With Zoho One, you can easily add, assign, and manage a variety of apps from one central platform. Whether you’re using native Zoho apps, third party tools from the Marketplace, or custom-built solutions, Zoho One helps you streamline operations, improve productivity, and maintain full control over user access.

 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the three types of apps supported in Zoho One and how you can manage them efficiently.

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

1. Zoho Apps (Bundled with Zoho One)

 

These are the core Zoho business apps included in your Zoho One subscription like Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, Zoho People, and over 40 others.

 

Key Features:

  • Single Sign On (SSO): One click access from the One Launcher.
  • Conditional Assignment: Automatically assign apps based on user criteria.
  • User Account Provisioning: New users get immediate access no duplicate setup required.
  • Role Assignment: Set user roles (e.g., admin, salesperson) right from the Admin Panel.

 

2. Marketplace Apps (Third party & Custom Apps)

If you need to connect with external services or build your own tools, Zoho One supports a variety of Marketplace apps.

There are three types of Marketplace apps:

a. Zoho Creator Custom Apps

  • Build your own apps quickly using Zoho Creator ideal for tasks like shipment tracking or custom workflows.

b. Ready made Creator Apps

  • Need something fast? Choose from 50+ pre built business apps available in the Creator App Deck.

c. Directory Apps

  • Easily integrate popular third party platforms (like Google Workspace, Atlassian, and Microsoft 365) using pre configured SSO connectors.

Key Features:

  • One click SSO: Users log in once and access multiple tools.
  • Conditional Assignment: Assign apps based on job roles or departments.
  • User Provisioning: Available for Creator apps no need for manual setup.

 

3. Non-Directory Apps (Custom or On premise Solutions)

If you use apps that aren’t available in the Marketplace or prefer on premise setups, you can still manage them in Zoho One.

There are three types of Non-Directory apps:

 

a. SAML Apps

  • Connect on premise or unsupported cloud apps using SAML based SSO.
  • Great for internal IT tools or secure access to legacy systems.

How to add a SAML app

b. Associated Apps

  • Configure SSO once for a “parent” app, and link other apps to it.
  • Saves time by inheriting login settings across related apps.

c. Bookmarked Apps

  • Add simple bookmarks (e.g., intranet portals, external web resources) for easy access from the One Launcher.
  • No authentication required.

Key Features:

  • One click SSO: Where applicable.
  • Easy Configuration: Especially for associated apps.
  • Conditional Assignment: Automate access based on user attributes.
  • Central Access: Everything users need in one place.

Tips for Managing Apps in Zoho One

  • Use conditional rules to streamline app access when onboarding new staff.
  • Keep user roles updated via the Admin Panel to ensure correct permissions.
  • Regularly audit app usage to ensure your team is only accessing what they need.
  • Encourage users to use the One Launcher for faster navigation and better productivity.

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