What level of Jira expertise do I need for basic project management versus complex workflow automation?
Basic project management requires intermediate skills - someone who can configure workflows, set up automation rules, and create dashboards. Complex automation needs advanced expertise, including scripting knowledge and deep understanding of Jira's automation engine and integration capabilities.
How can I tell if a candidate actually knows Jira administration versus just using it as a regular user?
Ask them to walk through configuring a workflow from scratch, explain how they'd set up automation rules, or describe how they've customized dashboards. Real administrators can discuss permission schemes, custom fields, and integration challenges - not just ticket creation and updates.
Can Jira handle non-technical projects, or is it only good for software development?
Jira works well for any project-based work - marketing campaigns, HR processes, legal workflows, and operations management. However, it requires proper configuration to match your business processes. Out of the box, it's very development-focused, but skilled administrators can adapt it for any department.
How well does Jira integrate with tools my business already uses like Salesforce, Slack, or Microsoft Office?
Jira has strong integration capabilities through its marketplace and API. It connects natively with Atlassian tools and has robust integrations with Slack, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and most development tools. Custom integrations are possible through Zapier or direct API connections for specific business needs.
How long does it typically take to set up Jira properly for a new organization or migrate from another tool?
Basic setup takes 1-2 weeks for simple workflows, but comprehensive configuration including custom workflows, automation, and integrations typically requires 4-8 weeks. Data migration adds another 2-4 weeks depending on the complexity and volume of existing project data.
What kind of ongoing maintenance does Jira require after initial setup?
Jira needs regular maintenance including user access management, workflow optimization based on team feedback, automation rule updates, and integration monitoring. Plan for 5-10 hours monthly for basic maintenance, more for organizations with complex configurations or frequent process changes.