Many organizations use both Jira and Azure DevOps - often because different teams or departments prefer different tools, or because of acquisitions and mergers. The challenge? Keeping work items in sync between both platforms.
In this guide, we'll compare 5 methods for syncing Jira and Azure DevOps, from free manual approaches to enterprise-grade real-time sync tools.
Why Sync Jira and Azure DevOps?
Common scenarios that require cross-platform sync:
- Development + Business: Developers use Azure DevOps while product managers use Jira
- Acquisitions: Two companies merged, each with their own tool preference
- Client requirements: Your client uses Jira but your team uses ADO
- Vendor management: External vendors work in a different platform
- Portfolio visibility: Executives need a unified view across all projects
Method 1: Manual CSV Export/Import
Manual Export/Import Free
Export work items from one platform as CSV, then import into the other. Both Jira and Azure DevOps support CSV import/export.
Pros
- Free, no tools required
- Full control over what syncs
- Works for one-time migrations
Cons
- Manual, time-consuming
- No automatic updates
- Easy to make mistakes
- Attachments/links lost
Best for: One-time migrations, small projects
Method 2: Zapier / Power Automate
Automation Platforms $20-50/mo
Use Zapier, Power Automate, or Make.com to create triggers that sync specific actions (new issue created, status changed, etc.).
Pros
- Automated, not manual
- Customizable triggers
- No coding required
Cons
- One-way sync only (usually)
- Delayed (not real-time)
- Complex field mappings
- Can hit API limits
Best for: Simple one-way notifications
Method 3: Azure DevOps Jira Connector
Official Connector Free
Microsoft's official Azure Boards app for Jira provides basic linking between ADO work items and Jira issues.
Pros
- Free, official support
- Links visible in both tools
- Easy setup
Cons
- Links only, not full sync
- No field synchronization
- No status mirroring
- Limited functionality
Best for: Visibility/linking only
Method 4: Third-Party Sync Tools
Dedicated Integrations $500-2000/mo
Tools like Exalate, Getint, and Unito specialize in enterprise-grade bi-directional sync between Jira and ADO.
Pros
- True bi-directional sync
- Field mapping flexibility
- Conflict resolution
- Enterprise support
Cons
- Expensive ($500+/month)
- Complex configuration
- Per-user pricing adds up
- Sync-only, no AI features
Best for: Large enterprises with complex workflows
Method 5: AJAIA (Sync + AI)
AJAIA Best Value
AJAIA combines real-time ADO/Jira sync with AI-powered epic breakdown, story generation, and portfolio management.
Pros
- Real-time bi-directional sync
- AI epic breakdown included
- Unified portfolio dashboard
- Desktop app + offline mode
- Team pricing (not per-user)
Cons
- Newer product (2024 launch)
- Windows desktop only (for now)
Best for: Teams that need sync + AI features
Quick Comparison Table
| Method | Bi-directional | Real-time | AI Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual CSV | No | No | No | Free |
| Zapier/PA | Limited | Delayed | No | $20-50/mo |
| Official Connector | Links only | Yes | No | Free |
| Exalate/Getint | Yes | Yes | No | $500-2000/mo |
| AJAIA | Yes | Yes | Yes | $69-449/mo |
Which Method Should You Choose?
- One-time migration: Use manual CSV export/import
- Simple notifications: Use Zapier or Power Automate
- Just need links: Use the official Azure Boards connector
- Enterprise sync (no AI): Use Exalate or Getint
- Sync + AI epic breakdown: Use AJAIA
Try Real-Time ADO + Jira Sync
AJAIA syncs your work items AND helps you break down epics with AI. 7-day free trial.
Download Free TrialConclusion
The right Jira/Azure DevOps sync method depends on your needs and budget. For occasional syncs, free methods work. For enterprise requirements, dedicated tools are worth the investment. And if you want sync plus AI-powered productivity features, AJAIA offers the best value.
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