Map a workflow before automating it

Before you start

Bring your own example and an account for the tool, where needed. These lessons are free to read; external tools may charge or limit access. Use non-sensitive material that you have permission to share. Menu labels and features can change.

Follow the steps

1. Pick one low-risk repeated task. Write its trigger, inputs, desired output and who reviews it.
2. Run the task manually with three sample inputs, including one incomplete example. Record what goes wrong.
3. Use the prompt to define rules and exception handling. Keep sending, publishing and spending behind human approval.
4. Only after the manual process works, choose an automation tool and review its permissions and costs. This lesson does not install software or connect accounts.

Your copy-and-use prompt

Replace the bracketed fields with your own details.

Map this workflow: [task]. Return trigger, required inputs, processing steps, output, human approval point, failure conditions and recovery procedure. Show what happens if data is missing or an external service fails. Suggest the smallest manual pilot before automation. Do not request passwords or API keys.

Try it yourself

Map how a workshop enquiry becomes a draft reply, with a person approving it before sending.

Check your result

You should know who approves the result and how to recover from a failed step.

Keep learning

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