That Automation Agency Alternatives: AI Automation Agencies Compared

The short version: That Automation Agency (formerly That Startup Company) is an Australia-based automation and data consultancy known for Zapier automation, Power Platform dashboards, and fractional-COO-style operating support. It's a great fit if your needs center on connecting existing apps and making better decisions from your data. You might look for an alternative if you want custom AI agent systems beyond Zapier, a US-based or timezone-aligned partner, or a durable build you own outright. Below: what they do well, when an alternative makes sense, and the options worth comparing — including Mark9x.

If you're searching for a That Automation Agency alternative, you're choosing the right partner for the job — here's a fair comparison.

What That Automation Agency does well

• Zapier expertise. They're a certified Zapier partner, strong at connecting the tools you already use into smooth workflows.

• Data and decisions. Power Platform dashboards and reporting, so you're not just automating tasks but seeing the numbers more clearly.

• An operator's lens. The founder comes from an operating-partner background, so the advice tends to be business-first, not just technical — closer to a fractional COO than a pure build shop.

• Broad industry experience. Clients span eCommerce, telecom, renewable energy, veterinary, roofing, finance, and staffing.

If your priority is tying existing apps together and getting clearer data, they're a strong candidate.

When to consider an alternative

• You want custom AI agents, not just Zapier connections. If your highest-leverage work needs purpose-built AI systems rather than app-to-app automation, look for a partner who builds those.

• You want a US-based or timezone-aligned team. They're Australia-based; if close collaboration in your hours matters, weigh that.

• You want a durable, owned system. If owning the build outright — with no lock-in, designed to outlast the next model — is your priority, choose a partner who centers ownership and durability.

The best alternatives

Mark9x

Best for: Owners who want a durable AI system they own. Full disclosure — this is us. Where That Automation Agency leans on Zapier and dashboards, Mark9x builds custom, durable AI systems around one principle: the model is rented, the system you build on it should be yours. 100% ownership, no lock-in, a working build in three to four weeks, and a five-pillar AI-proofing audit first.

AutomateNexus

Best for: Small businesses wanting a fixed-price custom AI build they own. Seattle-based and veteran-owned, building custom AI workflows and agents on an open-source, client-owned stack with transparent one-time pricing. A good alternative when you want more than app connections and care about ownership.

Axe Automation

Best for: Teams scaling revenue and operations end to end. A larger, full-service done-for-you agency with deep multi-platform expertise — worth comparing if you want ongoing operations transformation rather than a focused build.

How to choose

Match the work to the shop. App-connection-and-dashboards (That Automation Agency), custom owned AI builds (Mark9x, AutomateNexus), or full ops transformation (Axe) are different jobs.

Ask what you own. "When we're done, what do I own, and what breaks if you go away?" In writing — from anyone, including us.

Frequently asked questions

What does That Automation Agency do?

They're an Australia-based automation and data consultancy specializing in Zapier workflow automation, Power Platform dashboards, and operating-partner-style support to help businesses save time and decide faster.

Is there a better alternative?

It depends on your goal. They're strong for Zapier and data work. For custom, owned AI systems, an ownership-first agency like Mark9x or AutomateNexus may fit better.

How do I choose an AI automation agency?

Match the agency's specialty to your bottleneck, confirm ownership and lock-in, and check timelines and timezone fit.