What is a webhook?
A plain-English definition, with a real example from a small business.
Geoff BromilowAI systems developerUpdated 1 min readDefinition
A webhook is an automatic message one app sends to another the moment something happens, like a new order or a form being submitted.
At a glance
- Also called
- Web callback
- Good for
- Instant updates between apps
In plain English
Instead of checking for news every few minutes, the other app gets a tap on the shoulder straight away.
An example
When a client signs a contract online, a webhook tells your project system to create the job instantly.
Need two systems talking to each other?
Tell us which tools you use. We’ll tell you what’s possible — in plain English.
Questions people ask
An API is how you ask another app for something. A webhook is how that app tells you when something happens.
Related terms
Geoff builds the AI systems, automations and integrations behind our projects — and explains them without the jargon.
Keep exploring.
Ready to work smoother?
Tell us what’s slowing you down. We’ll come back within a day with a few ideas — no obligation.
Start a project hello@thinkswift.com.au