How to Build an Auto-Updating Client Dashboard in Notion Using Make.com
Stop sending manual status updates. Build a Notion dashboard that updates itself whenever you complete tasks in your project management tool.
Table of Contents
"Hey, just checking in—what's the status on the logo?"
If you get emails like this, your client process is broken.
Clients ask for updates when they feel in the dark.
You could send a weekly email update. But that requires you to remember to write it.
The Better Way: A "Self-Driving" Client Portal.We will build a Notion page that the client can check 24/7. It will show a progress bar and a list of completed tasks.
Crucially, you never update this page manually. It updates itself whenever you tick a box in your internal tool (ClickUp, Asana, Monday, etc.).
The Architecture
Step 1: The Notion Dashboard Setup
Create a Notion page for your client.
Add a Database called "Project Milestones".
* Columns: Task Name, Status (Todo, In Progress, Done), Completion Date.
Add a Progress Bar (Formula):
round((prop("Completed Tasks") / prop("Total Tasks")) 100) + "%"
Seeing this in action makes a huge difference. Once configured, the interface provides a clear visual confirmation that your automation is running smoothly, giving you peace of mind that the system is working as intended.
Step 2: The Trigger (ClickUp)
We want to update Notion when a Milestone is completed. We don't want to sync every tiny subtask.
* Make.com Trigger: ClickUp > Watch Tasks.
* Filter:
* Status = "Complete"
* Tag = "Client-Facing" (This is key. Only sync tasks with this tag).
Step 3: The Action (Notion)
* Module: Notion > Update Database Item.
* Search: Find the item in Notion that matches the ClickUp Task Name (or ID).
* Update: Change Status to "Done".
Step 4: The "Notification" (Optional)
When a major milestone is hit, let's tell the client.
* Module: Slack or Email.
* Message:
> "🚀 Update: [Task Name] has just been completed!
> Check your dashboard for the latest files: [Notion Link]"
The "Asset Upload" Reverse Sync
What if the client uploads a file to Notion? You want it in ClickUp.
Watch Database Items (Files column updated).Add Attachment.Notify Team.This prevents the "Did you get the file I uploaded?" email.
Why Clients Love This
* Control: They feel in control because they can see what's happening.
* Trust: Transparency builds trust. Hiding your work until the end creates anxiety.
* Professionalism: A custom portal looks like a million bucks but costs you $0.
This small adjustment can have a significant impact on your overall workflow efficiency. It turns a manual, error-prone process into a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it system.
Conclusion
Your job is to do the work, not to report on the work.
By automating the reporting, you free up mental energy to focus on the creative/strategic tasks that actually pay the bills.
Next Step: Create a "Client Portal" template in Notion today. Just the layout. Next time you sign a client, duplicate it and connect the automation.* Start automating with Make.com
Need to generate the proposal first? Check out our guide on Auto-Generating Client Proposals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why not just invite the client to ClickUp/Asana?
You can, but project management tools are often overwhelming for clients. They see *too much* detail (internal comments, subtasks). A Notion dashboard gives them a curated, high-level view that looks more professional.
Can the client edit the dashboard?
Yes, you can give them 'Comment' or 'Edit' access. This is great for them to upload assets or approve deliverables directly on the page.
Does this work with Trello?
Yes. Make.com supports Trello. Trigger: Card Moved to 'Done' -> Action: Update Notion Database Item.
How do I handle privacy?
Create a separate Notion page for each client. Share *only* that page with them. Do not share your entire workspace.
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