Gmail integration

Step 1: Configure Notification options

Navigate: Menu bar > Settings > Options form > Notification tab

Email Method > select Gmail from drop-down menu

Method w/ Attachments > select SMTP

(related article: Notification options)


Right-click on an email address in Crows Nest and select the Send email option. This launches a new Gmail message in a browser window with To: and Subject: lines filled.

You may also set this to SMTP and use our composer window for all Emails, however the Gmail interface is more robust so setting this to Gmail is the preferred method.

The Method w/ Attachments setting is used when you right-click Files and email them, or use any of the automated functions where a file is emailed, such as emailing a PO. Since we can't automate attaching a file to a new email in Gmail due to browser restrictions, we have a simple composer window that you can use when sending files.

You can alternatively initiate an email from CN without an attachment, then drag and drop your files on the Gmail composer in the browser.


Step 2: Connect Employees to Gmail account

On the Contact tab, fill in an Email address next to Email and then click the button with a gear on it to the right of the email address.

SMTP Settings 

  • Server = smtp.gmail.com

  • Port = 587

  • Username = employee email address

  • Password = password (see notes below regarding password)

  • Enable SSL = checked

  • Signature = Email signature, HTML can be used

One you have entered in the correct information, click Test Settings. If the test is successful, you will receive this window:

Additionally, you will see a test email sent from Crows Nest in the employee's Gmail inbox.


Gmail passwords

Option 1 - Sign in using App Passwords (recommended)

  • This option requires that App passwords be enabled to your Gmail administrator.

  • You will only be given the app password once.

  • Copy and paste into the password field in the SMTP settings window.

Option 2 - Less secure apps & your Google Account

In this scenario you would use the same password you use to log into Gmail.

This option is not available in Gmail when…

  • you have 2-step verification turned on, or

  • your admin has disabled less secure app access.