Unlock the Power of Automation: A Non-Developer's Guide to Using Python to Streamline Jira Tasks

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Python is a powerful and versatile programming language that can be used to automate a wide variety of tasks, including those related to Jira. With the help of Python, you can automate repetitive Jira tasks.

As a non-developer, you may think that automating Jira tasks with Python is out of your reach. But the truth is, with the right tools and resources, anyone can learn to use Python to automate Jira tasks and streamline their workflow.

Automating Jira tasks with Python

First, let's define what we mean by “automating Jira tasks with Python.” Essentially, this means using Python scripts to interact with the Jira API and perform actions such as creating and updating issues, managing sprints, and generating reports.

To get started, you'll need to have a basic understanding of Python and how to write scripts. If you're new to programming, don't worry - Python is a relatively easy language to learn, and there are plenty of resources available to help you get started.

Next, you'll need to learn how to use the Jira API. The Jira API allows you to access and manipulate Jira data using Python. There are many libraries available that make it easy to interact with the Jira API, such as jira-python, which can be installed using pip. And a ready-to-use approach for Jira Cloud users.

A great way to start learning how to use the Jira API and Python together is to start with simple scripts, such as creating an issue or updating the status of a task. Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can start experimenting with more complex scripts.

Authentication: Jira Cloud ≠ Jira Server

Another important thing to keep in mind is that Jira Cloud is different from Jira Server / Data Center. For example, when you are working with Jira Cloud, authentication is done through tokens that you need to generate and use in the scripts.

It's also worth noting that Jira Cloud provides a powerful set of REST APIs that allow you to automate Jira tasks. You can use these APIs to automate tasks like creating and updating issues, managing sprints, and generating reports. The documentation for these APIs is well-organized and easy to understand, so you should be able to find what you need.

Kickstart with JiraScripting project in Jira Cloud

If you’re on Jira Cloud you can easily start with the JiraScripting project from David Renton (ACE Leader Galway).

Watch David explain the JiraScripting project

Automate Jira Cloud with Python: Simplifying Bulk Issue Creation, CSV Imports and Reports

It is highly recommended to start with a free Jira Cloud test environment and not your productive instance.

To follow along, all four are required:

1. PyCharm as his Python IDE (the community version is free and works just fine)

2. Normal Python 3.10 or higher setup

3. Free GitHub Account

4. Download JiraScripting project

5. ADF Builder

Note: This demo was set up with three Kanban, Company managed projects named ‘Demo 1', 'Demo 2' and 'Demo 3' with keys 'D1', 'D2', and 'D3' for ease of following along, the user may wish to create these also. You’ll have to manually create these first before you start playing around.

What is this JiraScripting project for?

• Automating Jira Epic & Story Creation

• Commenting on issues

• Emailing assignees

• Tracking actions performed for easy follow-up

Usecases

• Audit request list (SOC2, C5, PCI DSS)

• Gap analysis output (Any security gap list from any consultancy)

• CVE check (Verify non-existence, not vulnerable or updated across many teams with a report as evidence)

• Quarterly security check output that needs to be remediated

• Multi-project upgrade work (e.g., all services need to upgrade encryption to TLS 1.3 or FIPS 140-3)

• Output work from Datadog or Sumo Logic

I'm set up, what's next?

You’ll find README files – follow them, and they’ll explain in detail what every step of the script is about.

Where to find help

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available to help you learn how to use Python to automate Jira tasks, including the Atlassian Online Community, documentation, and tutorials.

Start in easy mode

In summary, automating Jira tasks with Python is a great way to streamline your workflow and save time. While it may seem intimidating at first, with the right tools and resources, anyone can learn to use Python to automate Jira tasks.

Start with simple scripts, familiarize yourself with Jira API and Cloud, and don't be afraid to ask the Atlassian Community for help.

Kudos

@David Renton (ACE Leader Galway) for sharing his hard work, code and being co-author on this post.

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[david.renton]

Hey all, thanks for making it this far! I'm happy to answer any questions, just drop a comment here!

[Jack Brickey]

@Krimo Khermane , this is a very well written, and useful article. I really appreciate you sharing it in the community.

[Krimo Khermane]

@Jack Brickey Thanks for your kind words. TBH - I was kind of nervous when I hit the publishing button.