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BusinessBeginner1940s

Automation

Automation

Automation means using technology to complete a task with little or no manual work.

Explained simply

Automation means using technology to complete a task with little or no manual work.

1Trigger
→
2Automatic steps
→
3Task completed
→
4Human notified

At a glance

Category
Business
Difficulty
Beginner
Introduced
1940s

Real example

An invoice arriving by email is automatically saved, recorded and sent for approval.

Why it matters

It gives you a clear way to understand where this idea fits in AI and how it affects the tools you use.

Timeline

Origins

The ideas behind Automation begin developing.

1940s

Automation becomes a recognised term or technique.

Wider use

Research and practical applications increase.

Modern AI

Automation becomes connected to newer AI systems and products.

Today

Automation remains relevant in the business area of AI.

Dates for broad concepts may describe the period when the idea emerged or became widely used, rather than one exact invention date.

Learn next

Continue with these connected terms:

WorkflowA workflow is an ordered series of steps used to complete a task, involving people, software, AI or a combination.→AgentAn AI agent is an AI that can work toward a goal by planning steps, using tools and taking actions—not just replying to a question.→WebhookA webhook automatically sends information from one application to another when a specific event happens.→

Simple infographic

A quick visual way to understand Automation.

1Trigger
→
2Automatic steps
→
3Task completed
→
4Human notified
1 of 6

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