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A manual trigger in Jira is a type of automation trigger that activates only when a user chooses to run it. Instead of firing automatically when an issue is created or updated a manual trigger places full control in the hands of the user. This makes it especially useful for tasks that should not occur on every change but still benefit from automation when the timing is right.

When a rule with a manual trigger is published Jira adds an option inside the issue view that lets the user start the automation. Clicking this option runs the rule exactly as it was designed. This gives teams a safe and predictable way to automate work without worrying about the rule firing at the wrong time. It also lets users confirm that the moment is appropriate before the system makes changes.

There are many situations where a manual trigger makes sense. One common use case is generating subtasks only when a story is ready for development. A product owner or developer can open the issue and run the trigger once they confirm the story is clear and actionable. Another helpful use case is performing cleanup after backlog grooming or sprint planning. A team lead might want to reset fields, adjust priorities or update labels on specific issues. Instead of making each change manually they can run a single manual trigger that performs all of these actions in seconds.

Teams also rely on manual triggers to support consistent processes. If a task requires several steps that must be repeated exactly the same way every time a manual trigger ensures that the process is followed. This reduces mistakes and helps maintain structure within the project. Manual triggers also shine in situations where full automation would be too broad. For example, some issues need extra compliance steps or documentation checks only in special situations. A manual trigger gives the user the ability to start the process only when it applies.

Even with their flexibility manual triggers still share the limits of all Jira automation triggers. Some events cannot act as triggers because Jira does not capture them in a way automation rules can detect. There are also limits on how many components a single automation rule can contain and how often rules can run. Very large or complex automation structures can reach these limits. Manual triggers must also respect user permissions. If the action requires editing or transitioning an issue the automation will not run unless the user has the proper access.

Manual triggers combine the speed of automation with the precision of human judgment. They help teams complete work consistently, reduce repetitive tasks and take action only when the timing is correct. For teams looking to improve workflow quality while keeping control over important decisions manual triggers offer a valuable and flexible solution inside Jira.

Cameron McKenzie is an AWS Certified AI Practitioner,Machine Learning Engineer,Solutions Architect and author of many popular books in the software development and Cloud Computing space. His growing YouTube channel has well over 30,000 subscribers.