What exactly is n8n and what can I do with it?

n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform that helps companies automate repetitive tasks without extensive programming knowledge. It works as a visual editor where you can connect different apps and services to create workflows.

Organizations use n8n, for example, to automatically add new leads from website forms to CRM systems, or to send social media posts simultaneously to multiple platforms. The platform has integrations with 400+ popular tools like Google Workspace, Slack, Salesforce and European business systems like Exact Online.

The advantage over paid alternatives like Zapier is that n8n is open source and can run on your own servers, providing data sovereignty and cost control. For marketing teams it’s useful because it can automate campaigns and seamlessly synchronize lead data between different systems.

The tool has a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, allowing teams to set up workflows without months of development time. This makes it a cost-effective solution for companies looking to increase operational efficiency.*

*Implementation success depends on organization context and technical support quality.

Why companies choose EasyData n8n expertise

8 weeks Typical implementation with EasyData*
*Timeframe based on average of our projects,
individual duration varies per complexity.
25+ years Automation expertise since 1999
400+ apps Supported integrations

n8n implementation challenges we help with

Technical complexity barriers

n8n’s flexibility requires technical expertise and focus. SMEs often face skill shortages as the first hurdle in n8n implementation, plus setup and maintenance complications that require dedicated technical resources.*

*Challenges based on analysis of implementation cases,
specific complexity varies per organization IT landscape.
  • Learning curve challenges:
    Initial setup can be challenging for non-developers, with training requiring patience and technical understanding
  • Infrastructure management:
    Self-hosting requires ongoing server maintenance and security updates
  • Integration complexity:
    Effectively connecting local systems requires workflow design expertise
  • Error handling:
    Complex workflows can become unresponsive after upgrades without expertise

Implementation and scalability challenges

Organizations specifically struggle with translating business requirements into effective n8n workflows that meet compliance requirements.*

*Challenges vary per sector and organization size, based on EasyData implementation experience.
  • Workflow design patterns: Creating maintainable, scalable workflows
  • Business process alignment: Translating business requirements into n8n configurations
  • Performance optimization: Implementing caching and parallel processing
  • Compliance integration: Workflows that meet GDPR requirements
n8n workflow complexity and implementation challenges

EasyData accelerates n8n implementation success

Proven implementation methodology

Proven approach delivers working n8n workflows typically within 8 weeks. Faster to business value, lower implementation risk.*

*Comparison based on EasyData experience versus self-implementation cases.

Business-focused workflow design

We translate business processes into optimized n8n workflows. Focus on outcomes that deliver measurable business results.

Complete technical setup

From infrastructure setup to security configuration, we handle technical complexity so focus remains on primary business results.

Team training

Teams become self-sufficient with structured training programs, documentation and ongoing support.

European compliance integration

Built-in GDPR compliance, European data centers and full data sovereignty, without post-implementation adjustments.*

*Compliance depends on specific organization requirements and sector regulations.

Long-term partnership

25+ years experience supporting companies. Automation capabilities grow with organization development.

n8n implementation methodology

Our systematic approach transforms n8n potential into business results for organizations. A phased approach with pilot project validates capabilities before scaling automation through the organization.*

*Methodology developed from 25+ years implementation experience, approach adapted per organization context.
Implementation Phase Self-Implementation Challenges EasyData Advantage Typical Timeline*
Assessment & Planning Unclear ROI, undefined requirements Structured business case analysis with compliance focus Week 1-2
Technical Setup Infrastructure complexity, security risks Complete server configuration with enterprise-grade security Week 3-4
Workflow Development Trial-and-error approach, performance issues Best-practice templates and optimized architecture Week 5-6
Testing & Deployment Incomplete testing, production failures Comprehensive QA protocols and phased rollout Week 7-8
*Timeline based on average project experience, individual phase duration varies per organization complexity and scope.

n8n versus alternatives: cost comparison

Criterion Zapier Premium Microsoft Power Automate n8n + EasyData
Monthly costs (10K workflows) €599/month €450/month From €180/month*
Setup complexity Low Medium Executed by EasyData
European compliance Limited Partial Full GDPR compliant
Customization options Limited Medium Fully customizable
Support International support Limited support Dedicated support
Vendor lock-in risk High High Minimal – Open source basis
*Costs depend on usage volume and chosen support level, comparison based on market analyses.

n8n implementation packages

Starter Package

From €4,500 one-time*

  • n8n server setup & configuration
  • 5 basic workflows
  • Team training (4 hours)
  • 1 month support
*Prices indicative, final costs depend on specific requirements.

Professional Package

From €8,900 one-time*

  • Complete enterprise setup
  • 15 customized workflows
  • Extensive training (12 hours)
  • 3 months support
  • Performance monitoring
*Prices indicative, final costs depend on organization scope and complexity.

Enterprise Package

From €15,500 one-time*

  • High-availability cluster setup
  • Extensive workflows
  • Team certification program
  • 6 months priority support
  • Compliance audit & reporting
  • Monitoring dashboard
*Enterprise prices depend on organization size and specific compliance requirements.

Migration Service

From €2,500*

  • Complete data export
  • Workflow recreation in n8n
  • Parallel testing period
  • Transition support
*Migration costs depend on existing system complexity and data volume.

Training & Consultancy

From €750/day*

  • On-site or remote training
  • Best practices workshops
  • Workflow optimization
  • Architecture reviews
*Training rates depend on location, group size and training complexity.

Managed Service

From €450/month*

  • Complete infrastructure management
  • Proactive monitoring
  • Security updates
  • Performance optimization
  • Backup & disaster recovery
*Managed service costs depend on infrastructure size and chosen service level agreement.

n8n implementation commitment*

Join companies that professionally automate their workflows.
Realize measurable results within the set implementation timeframe.

*Commitment based on 25+ years expertise and results depend on specific factors in your own organization.

n8n expertise benefits*

*Benefits based on implementation experience since 1999, specific results depend on organization context.

25+ years automation experience
Pioneers in workflow automation since 1999

European data sovereignty
All servers in European data centers, full GDPR compliance

Organization flexibility
Open source basis, minimal vendor lock-in

Typical implementation within 8 weeks
From first consultation to working workflows*

European system integrations
Expertise in Exact Online, Twinfield, Mollie and other platforms

Workflow flexibility
Choice of different implementation methods adapted to your business culture

Frequently asked questions about n8n implementation

Why should I choose n8n over Zapier or Microsoft Power Automate?

n8n offers substantial cost savings at larger volumes, full data control through self-hosting, and GDPR compliance with European data sovereignty. Additionally minimal vendor lock-in through open source architecture and extensive customization options.*

*Cost comparison based on EasyData analyses of implementations, specific savings depend on usage volume and organization context.

How long does a typical n8n implementation with EasyData take?

EasyData’s proven methodology delivers working workflows typically within 8 weeks. This includes complete setup, workflow development, testing, training and go-live support.*

*Implementation timeframe based on average project duration, individual times vary per organization size and workflow complexity.

Which systems can n8n integrate?

n8n integrates seamlessly with business systems like Twinfield, Exact Online, Mollie, Adyen, plus 400+ international platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft 365. EasyData specializes in European compliance and connectivity.

What if my team has no technical background?

EasyData training programs are designed for business users without technical background. We provide step-by-step guidance, documentation, and ongoing support until teams are independent.*

*Training success depends on team size, technical experience and organization commitment to implementation process.

What about security and compliance?

EasyData implements n8n with enterprise-grade security in European data centers, full GDPR compliance, end-to-end encryption, and regular security audits. Your data remains fully under European jurisdiction.*

*Security level depends on chosen hosting configuration and organization specific compliance requirements.

What are the ongoing costs after implementation?

After implementation you mainly pay for hosting: from €45 to €200 per month depending on usage, any SLA and optional managed services. No per-workflow costs like with SaaS alternatives.*

*Ongoing costs vary per hosting configuration, usage volume and chosen service level, cost structure transparently communicated during implementation.

About the author

Rob Camerlink - CEO EasyData

Rob Camerlink

CEO & Founder of EasyData

25+ years pioneer in document automation | Expert in GDPR-compliant digital transformation | Expert in intelligent data solutions that help companies move forward since 1999. EasyData is headquartered in the Netherlands and registered with the Dutch Data Protection Authority under number FG001914.