Quick Overview
Claude and ChatGPT become much more useful once they can access the tools you already use. Instead of copying emails, documents, notes, or tickets into every conversation, you connect supported apps and let the AI retrieve information directly when you need it.
There are two ways to do this:
The first is by connecting an app that’s already supported by Claude or ChatGPT.
The second is by connecting a custom integration using the Model Context Protocol (MCP). This is useful when the application you need isn’t available as a built-in connector.
This guide walks through both approaches and explains when each one makes sense.
Who This Is Useful For
This guide is for founders, consultants, operators, and teams who want Claude or ChatGPT to work with the software they already use. Whether you’re connecting Google Drive, Slack, GitHub, Notion, or an internal business tool, this guide will help you choose the right setup method.
What You’ll Learn
How built-in app connections work
When you should use a custom connector instead
How to connect apps in Claude
How to connect apps in ChatGPT
How to test that everything is working correctly
The Setup
Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
Claude or ChatGPT account | Some integrations require paid plans |
Account for the app you’re connecting | Google, Slack, Notion, GitHub, etc. |
Internet connection | Required for authentication |
10–20 minutes | Most built-in connections take less than five minutes |
Before connecting anything, decide whether the app already exists in the platform’s directory. If it does, use the built-in integration. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a custom connector.
Connecting Apps to Claude and ChatGPT
Method 1: Connect a Built-in App
This is the easiest option and the one most people should start with:
Claude
Open Settings.
Select Connectors.
Choose the app you want to connect.
Sign in to your account.
Approve the requested permissions.
Return to your conversation and test the connection.
ChatGPT
Open Settings.
Select Plugins.
Browse the App Directory.
Click Connect.
Complete the sign-in process.
Test the app in a new conversation.
Method 2: Connect a Custom Connector
If the application isn’t available in the directory, you’ll need to add a custom connector.
Most modern custom connectors use MCP (Model Context Protocol), an open standard that allows AI models to communicate securely with external software.
Claude | ChatGPT |
|---|---|
Supports Remote MCP connectors through: Settings → Connectors → Add Custom Connector. | Supports custom Apps using MCP on supported workspace plans and developer mode. |
You’ll usually need
An MCP server URL
Authentication credentials
Any setup instructions provided by the software vendor
Many SaaS products now publish their own MCP servers, so you don’t necessarily need to build one yourself.
P.S. We also wrote a full guide on what connectors, skills, and plugins are. Read it here.
Which Method Should You Use?
If you want to connect… | Recommended approach |
|---|---|
Google Drive | Built-in app |
Gmail | Built-in app |
Slack | Built-in app |
GitHub | Built-in app (where available) |
Internal CRM | Custom connector |
As a general rule, use a built-in integration whenever one exists. Custom connectors are best reserved for tools that aren’t already supported.
Test the Connection
Once the app has been connected, try a simple request before building it into your workflow.
Examples:
“Summarise my latest Google Doc.”
“Find the email from John about the proposal.”
“Show me the open GitHub issues for this project.”
“Search my Notion workspace for onboarding documentation.”
If the AI can’t access the information, review the permissions before reconnecting the app.
Common Problems
Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
Authentication failed | Sign in again and approve the required permissions. |
Wrong account connected | Disconnect the app and reconnect the correct account. |
Permission denied | Check whether the connected account has access to the requested data. |
Security Tips
Connecting apps gives Claude and ChatGPT access to your data, so it’s worth spending a minute reviewing what you’ve connected.
Good Practice | Avoid |
|---|---|
Connect only the apps you actively use. | Connecting personal and business accounts without a reason. |
Review permissions before approving access. | Granting broader access than necessary. |
Remove unused connections regularly. | Leaving old integrations connected indefinitely. |
Store API keys securely if you’re using custom connectors. | Sharing credentials in chats or documentation. |
The Connection Prompt
I want to connect this application to Claude (or ChatGPT).
The application is:
[Application name]
Can you tell me whether this is supported as a built-in app, or whether I need a custom connector?
If it's built in, walk me through the setup.
If it requires a custom connector, explain exactly what I need and guide me through the process step by step.
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If you need any guidance while implementing this, or if something isn't quite clear, feel free to ping the team. We're here to support you and clear things up.
Until next time,
Team PracticalyAI
