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AI and Automation: In a Nutshell
AI and process automation are often treated as one and the same, yet on closer inspection they differ significantly from one another. AI helps to understand content, recognise patterns or categorise information. Process automation, on the other hand, ensures that recurring workflows are executed in a structured, rule-based and efficient manner. linqi is therefore not AI, but software for automating processes. Within these workflows, however, linqi can make targeted use of AI technology, for example to analyse texts or classify enquiries – in this way, linqi supports AI-driven process optimisation.
What is the difference between AI and intelligent automation?
The difference between AI and automation lies primarily in their function and purpose.
Artificial intelligence processes unstructured and complex information. It can analyse content, recognise patterns, evaluate texts or generate suggestions. AI is particularly suitable where data is not always structured in the same way or requires interpretation.
Automation, on the other hand, follows fixed rules. It ensures that recurring processes are carried out reliably, transparently and without manual intermediate steps. At linqi, processes are converted into digital workflows for this purpose. For example, the forwarding of enquiries, the granting of approvals or the assignment of responsibilities is integrated, automated and optimised.
What is the difference between RPA and AI?
Another term that is often lumped together with AI and process automation is RPA. When it comes to AI and RPA, the distinction between them is therefore also interesting.
RPA stands for Robotic Process Automation and refers to the automation of clearly defined, rule-based tasks. These include, for example, data entry, system switches or standardised click sequences in existing applications. Whilst RPA processes fixed steps, AI assists in the evaluation of information.
In short: RPA executes, AI analyses. In modern processes, both technologies can be combined. linqi provides the overarching framework and can integrate both RPA and AI into an end-to-end process.
What is process automation with AI?
Process automation with AI describes an automated workflow that is supported by AI at specific points. This is often referred to as intelligent automation. The AI takes on individual tasks within a clearly defined process, whilst automation controls the end-to-end workflow.
What might a typical process automation with AI look like? An example illustrates this clearly: a request is received, the AI identifies the subject or priority, and the automation then initiates the appropriate process. It assigns tasks, triggers approvals and documents results. In this case, the AI provides the contextual classification, whilst the automation ensures the process runs smoothly.
What, then, is an AI workflow?
An AI workflow is a process in which AI is integrated at one or more points. The term therefore describes the very specific procedure in practice. Process automation with AI is the overarching term and refers to the principle. An AI workflow is thus the implementation of that principle. It describes a single process or sub-process in which AI is actively integrated.
Put simply:
- Process automation with AI: the principle or the approach
- AI workflow: the specific sequence of events in practice
Practical example with linqi: How AI and automation differ
A company receives customer enquiries by email every day, some in German, some in other languages. With linqi, these incoming messages can be processed automatically – as an AI workflow.
Step #1: Analysis and processing using AI
The AI analyses the content of the message, summarises it and translates it if necessary. It then classifies the enquiry according to predefined categories, such as complaints, product enquiries or technical support. To ensure the AI works reliably, the language model is provided in advance with the relevant context regarding the company and a clear framework with possible selection options. This keeps the processing on track, significantly increasing process reliability and quality.
Step #2: Handover to linqi’s digital workflow
If, for example, the AI identifies a complaint, linqi automatically routes the enquiry to the correct processing workflow, assigns it to the relevant department and triggers the next steps. At the same time, based on a stored prompt, a suitable response can already be prepared in the relevant language and output as a draft. Employees then simply need to review and approve the text.
In this way, linqi combines structured process automation with targeted AI.
The AI handles analysis, translation and text generation, whilst linqi securely manages the workflow. Furthermore, thanks to linqi, the AI is operated on German servers in compliance with the GDPR, and its use does not incur any additional costs.
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Conclusion: AI and process automation: different, but united with linqi
AI and automation are closely linked, but they are not identical. AI helps to understand information and make unstructured content usable. Automation ensures that this results in a clear and efficient workflow.
The no-code platform linqi is therefore not AI. Rather, it is a solution for structured process control. Where appropriate, linqi can integrate AI technology, thereby combining the benefits of AI automation, AI workflows and modern process automation with AI into a single, integrated system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AI and automation? +-
AI analyses content, recognises patterns and helps to categorise or generate information. Automation, on the other hand, ensures that defined workflows are carried out reliably and consistently. The difference between AI and automation is therefore that AI tends to understand or evaluate, whilst automation controls processes.
What does process automation using AI mean in practice? +-
Process automation using AI means that a clearly defined process is supplemented by AI at specific points. For example, AI can classify texts, translate content or analyse information. The automation system then takes over the forwarding, allocation and execution of the next steps in the process.
Is Linqi an AI? +-
No, linqi is not an AI system, but rather process automation software capable of integrating AI. linqi manages and organises digital workflows and can deploy specific AI functions within these processes. In this way, linqi combines structured process logic with the capabilities of modern AI automation.
How does linqi use AI in its processes? +-
linqi uses AI wherever content needs to be automatically analysed, translated or processed in real time. For example, within a single process, a text can be evaluated, classified or prepared for further processing. linqi remains in charge of the actual process control, turning the AI capabilities into a robust automation workflow.
Is the use of AI in linqi GDPR-compliant and does it involve any additional costs? +-
linqi operates its AI in compliance with the GDPR on German servers. At the same time, the use of AI within linqi does not incur any additional costs. In this way, linqi combines process automation and AI with high standards of data protection, process reliability and cost-effectiveness.
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After a preliminary discussion of approx. 30 minutes, we will automate your process free of charge and demonstrate linqi to you using your own process in a live demo via video call (approx. 60 minutes) to clarify any open questions.
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