One of the best shortcut apps on iOS just got an added boost of functionality, because Workflow now offers widget integration with Apple's Notification Center. And, in many cases, you'll be able to run a specific workflow immediately from Notification Center without bouncing you to the app first.

If you've never used it, Workflow is an app where you can program a chain of instructions to accomplish all sorts of actions. You can create a workflow that gives you directions to all your day's meetings, or summon up the closest coffee shops, or make a GIF from one of your videos. It's like an easier, more colorful, and visually pleasing version of IFTTT. (Although, to be fair, IFTTT released a stand-alone drag-and-drop app with notification center integration back in February called Do.)

Now, all of that gets even easier. From your lock screen, or anywhere in iOS, all you have to do is just drag down from the top of your phone to access your favorite Workflow shortcuts. Tapping on one will either perform the action immediately, give you contextual options (if you want to find coffee, it will give you options right in the widget), or send you to the app.

Workflow is compatible with other apps and services — like Dropbox, Evernote, and Venmo — and the app will also let you run scripts from the iOS share sheet, or add them to your homescreen. It's a pretty friendly app as far as iOS integration goes, but you have to be willing to put some time in to get anything out of it. While the app makes the process of programming these shortcuts feel approachable, you still have to sort of toil away to make them work right. And if, like me, you don't have the time or the patience, you can always just browse to the "Gallery," Workflow's version of a virtual marketplace — because the only thing more satisfying than being productive is having someone else do the work for you.

Workflow is available on the App Store for $4.99, and the new widget functionality is available as a free update for existing users.