Automation is powerful.

But automation should usually be the result of a successful workflow, not the starting point.

Before automating anything, make sure the workflow works manually.

A bad workflow automated is still a bad workflow.

The only difference is that mistakes happen faster.

When Should You Automate?

Consider automation when:

✅ The workflow consistently works

✅ The inputs are predictable

✅ The outputs are repeatable

✅ The workflow saves meaningful time

✅ The process is used regularly

If you are still changing the workflow every week, it is probably too early to automate.

When Should You NOT Automate?

Avoid automation when:

❌ The workflow is still being tested

❌ The process changes frequently

❌ Human judgment is required at every step