RPA (Robotic Process Automation)
Traditional rule-based automation. Agentic systems differ by their ability to adapt.
Why it matters
RPA follows rigid scripts. AI agents handle ambiguity and adapt. Knowing the difference helps choose the right tool.
In practice
We use both: n8n handles rule-based work, AI agents handle tasks requiring judgment. n8n-first means most is RPA.
Related terms
n8n-First Principle
A design philosophy: every repeatable task is a workflow, not an AI call. AI is the last resort.
Workflow Automation
End-to-end execution of business processes without manual intervention.
Agentic Workflow
An AI-driven process where agents make decisions, take actions, and coordinate tasks with minimal human intervention.
Agent (AI Agent)
An AI system that plans, decides, and acts autonomously toward goals, rather than simply responding to prompts.