How are Automations so USELESS!!!???

[thedriver]

I find Automations totally useless.
 Examples:
I have automations that just don't run when at the time when they're supposed. Sometimes they might, other times (probably most of the time they don't). If I run them manually the automation runs.

Sometimes automations play music they're not asked for, for example I have an automation that is supposed to play a specific 12 hour playlist and most of the time it does. Then occasionally it plays something completely random that doesn't even match anything close to what is in the automation.

It always gives errors that it can't find a device, even though it works on that device.

They are honestly the most useless function.

Is anyone else in the same boat? 

[SmartHomeH-TAGS]

I have had some trouble with my personal Spotify playlists not playing on Mini speakers, but have no problem at all when I use a Nest Hub. 

[Mclem]

I also have similar issues, but with groups. They randomly work, sometimes disappear and sometimes reappear. Individual speakers seem to work. 

I've rebooted, and factory reset so many times I've lost count. This week I bought several new speakers. They worked once.  Often the groups will work via an app such as Spotify or iheart.  And yes I've uninstalled and reinstalled Home. 

I'm usually fairly good at finding solutions, but I'm now giving up.