OSS-first docs
These docs teach the open system first: contracts, generated surfaces, runtimes, governance, and incremental adoption. Studio shows up as the operating layer on top, not as the source of truth.
Automation platforms
Automation platforms connect apps and automate tasks through triggers and actions. They serve operations and non-technical users well but stop short of generating full applications or enforcing fine-grained policies.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Zapier | Make (Integromat) | n8n | Pipedream |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workflow model | Zaps: trigger + one or more actions | Real-time visual orchestration for AI agents and automations | Node-based workflow builder with drag-and-drop and code; build multi-step AI agents | Workflows connect any API; Pipedream Connect SDK adds integrations quickly |
| Visual builder? | Yes (simple; web-based). | Yes; AI-assisted editor | Yes; visual canvas. | Code-centric editor; no visual UI builder |
| Self-host? | No (cloud only). | Cloud only. | Yes (Docker, self-host) | Cloud only (hosted). |
| Integrations & AI | Connects almost 8 000 apps; limited AI features. | 3 000+ pre-built apps; supports GenAI tools; GDPR/SOC2 and SSO | Integrates LLMs; allows JS or Python code and library imports; chatbots with Slack/Teams | MCP servers add 3 000+ APIs and 10 000+ tools to agents; AI agent builder prompts and deploys agents; SOC 2/ HIPAA/GDPR compliant |
| Policy & UI generation | No policy engine; does not generate user interfaces. | No policy engine; does not generate UIs beyond a workflow dashboard. | No policy engine; no UI builder | No policy engine; does not generate UI. |
Why ContractSpec differs
- Full application generation – ContractSpec compiles specs into back-end, events and user interfaces for both web and mobile.
- Policy enforcement – A built-in policy engine governs PII access and mutations across the UI.
- Customisation via overlays – Non-technical users can safely personalise layouts while respecting policies.
- Extensible capabilities – Connect to external APIs and services via capability providers while maintaining type safety.
Automation tools simplify integrations and tasks; ContractSpec goes further by generating a complete, policy-safe application around your data and processes.
OSS docsStart with OSS. Adopt Studio when you want the operating layer.
Why ContractSpec
Keep educational and comparison content reachable without letting it define the primary OSS learning path.