Source: [Original HTML page](https://stolenorbit.com/en/tools/ai-or-automation/)

Language: English

PLANNING WORKBENCH

# Does this process need an AI agent?

Start with how variable the work is and what an error would cost. This decision aid suggests an architecture to investigate, without choosing a product for you.

## Your assumptions

[Source for this section](https://stolenorbit.com/en/tools/ai-or-automation/#tool-input-heading)

Values stay on this page. The website does not send or save them. Download your result before closing.

Calculation needs JavaScript. The method, formulas, example and downloadable templates remain available below.

Answer what you know: “Not sure” is valid. Unanswered questions become points to check.

**Can stable rules describe the steps?**

**What information needs interpretation?**

**Could an error have significant consequences?**

**Do you have examples, acceptance criteria and authorised access?**

## Your result

Enter what you know and choose “Review assumptions”. See what the answers support and what still needs checking.

## How to read the result

[Source for this section](https://stolenorbit.com/en/tools/ai-or-automation/#tool-method-heading)

Evidence and access come first. If missing, prepare the process. With clear rules and structured data, consider a deterministic workflow. With variable content, add AI inside a controlled step. Consequential actions call for review before execution.

An agent may be a candidate when the steps to choose also vary. It still needs permitted tools, execution limits, tests and escalation. This tool does not assess security, compliance or a specific integration’s feasibility.

### A concrete example

Copying an already validated code between systems may need only a workflow. Interpreting an email request may need AI, while the final order remains a draft to approve. Receiving an email alone does not justify an autonomous agent.

[Read the full comparison](https://stolenorbit.com/en/resources/ai-agents-or-workflows/) [Define human review](https://stolenorbit.com/en/templates/human-review-policy/) [All templates and tools](https://stolenorbit.com/en/tools/)

## Turn assumptions into a test.

Bring a concrete process, a representative sample and the outcome you want to observe.

Review the text before sending. Only your email is needed alongside the message; other details are optional.

[Contact us](/en/contact/)

## Turn the question into a next step.

-   [RAG or fine tuning](https://stolenorbit.com/en/resources/rag-or-fine-tuning/)
-   [AI agents or workflows](https://stolenorbit.com/en/resources/ai-agents-or-workflows/)
-   [Knowledge source register](https://stolenorbit.com/en/templates/knowledge-source-register/)