# What is Autom?

## **Autom Components**

Autom Mate provides **a range of tools for creating comprehensive events** within an Autom. Users can refer to the ["**Libraries**" ](/userguide/libraries.md)page for detailed insights into tool usage. Autom components are building blocks used to automate tasks and workflows, such as [**data manipulation**](/userguide/libraries/transform/advanced-actions.md#data-transform), [**application integration**](/userguide/libraries/integration.md), and process automation.

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## **Drag-and-Drop Functionality**

Users can drag and drop activities onto the workboard, making it **easy to manage and arrange** the components of an Autom. This functionality allows users to visually design workflows by simply dragging predefined actions from the [**library**](/userguide/libraries.md) and dropping them onto the workboard. Each action represents a step in the automation process, and users can arrange them in the desired sequence to create a logical flow.

<figure><img src="/files/aYPZSDENklLugXpUOjyK" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## **Variables**

Autom diagrams allow the use of various [**variables**](/userguide/autom-features/variables.md) to **store** and **manipulate data during the automation process**. [**Variables** ](/userguide/autom-features/variables.md)can be created to hold data such as user inputs, system responses, and intermediate values needed for calculations. Users have the flexibility to create [new variables](/userguide/autom-features/variables.md) tailored to specific workflow requirements, ensuring that the automation process is dynamic and adaptable.

<figure><img src="/files/xBZY9FwzjjcTZl5LAXTS" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Libraries

Autom Mate's Autom Designer offers three distinct [library ](/userguide/libraries.md)categories:

<figure><img src="/files/6UEniPruBHOYNQoGy4GA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p><a href="#integration"><strong>Integration</strong></a></p><p></p><p>Actions that facilitate the <strong>connection</strong> and <strong>communication between different software applications and services</strong>. These actions enable <strong>data transfer,</strong> <a href="/pages/E1Ovdvw1tQ4UUPvNNBZx#api-trigger"><strong>API calls</strong></a><strong>, and synchronization between systems.</strong></p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/O48FC55kFvRpMZTYDou7">/pages/O48FC55kFvRpMZTYDou7</a></td></tr><tr><td><p><a href="/pages/iGXb2qSIcpubhvUaihFD"><strong>Transform</strong></a></p><p></p><p>Actions that process and <strong>manipulate data, such as filtering, sorting, and converting data formats</strong>. These actions help in preparing data for further use or analysis within the Autom.</p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/iGXb2qSIcpubhvUaihFD">/pages/iGXb2qSIcpubhvUaihFD</a></td></tr><tr><td><p><a href="/pages/6dfMySwJnHWb1AHY0Rg2"><strong>Utility</strong></a></p><p></p><p>General-purpose actions that perform various utility functions, such as logging, error handling, and sending notifications. These actions support the overall automation process by providing essential functionalities.</p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/6dfMySwJnHWb1AHY0Rg2">/pages/6dfMySwJnHWb1AHY0Rg2</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### **System Libraries vs. Custom Libraries**

* [**System Libraries:** ](/userguide/product-features/my-environment/libraries.md#system-libraries)These are developed and pre-installed by Autom Mate within the Autom Designer. They contain essential actions and functionalities that are integral to the platform's operation. [**System libraries**](/userguide/product-features/my-environment/libraries.md) cannot be deactivated, ensuring stability and reliability.
* [**Custom Libraries:** ](/userguide/product-features/my-environment/libraries.md#custom-libraries)Users can create or download custom libraries from the [**Library Store**](/userguide/product-features/store/library-store.md), providing enhanced flexibility and customization options. [**Custom libraries**](/userguide/product-features/my-environment/libraries.md) allow users to extend the capabilities of Autom Mate by adding new actions specific to their needs. Version transitions can be performed through the user interface, ensuring adaptability to evolving requirements.

<figure><img src="/files/MdgBrX5qqEiiNEZaPiQ2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## **Integration**

Users can explore a variety of [**integrations**](/userguide/libraries/integration.md) developed by Autom Mate within the ["**Integration**"](/userguide/libraries/integration.md) category, which are readily available for use in Autom's. These integrations allow users to connect Autom Mate with various applications and services, enabling seamless data exchange and process automation across different platforms.

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## **Advanced Actions**

Autom Mate offers collections of [**advanced processes**](#advanced-actions) for users who need to integrate with applications not directly accessible through standard actions.

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## **UI Actions**

Users can perform actions that mimic keyboard and mouse operations via [**UI processes**](#ui-actions). These actions allow automation of tasks involving user interfaces of applications that do not have API access. Step-by-step instructions are available to help users set up and execute [**UI actions**](#ui-actions), making it easier to automate interactions with desktop or web applications.

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## **Data Manager and Mate Drive**

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><p><a href="/pages/QYTE8hRX7qCkIMojMITP"><strong>Data Manager</strong></a></p><p></p><p>Acts as the central hub for organizing data exchange within variable or application integrations. It manages the flow of data between different components of an Autom, ensuring that data is correctly passed and utilized throughout the automation process.</p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/QYTE8hRX7qCkIMojMITP">/pages/QYTE8hRX7qCkIMojMITP</a></td></tr><tr><td><p><a href="/pages/o5Bkmsu6kpjNSOsBnr55"><strong>Mate Drive</strong></a></p><p></p><p>Provides storage for files necessary for smooth Autom operations. Users can upload and manage files that are required for automation tasks, such as configuration files, templates, and data files.</p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/o5Bkmsu6kpjNSOsBnr55">/pages/o5Bkmsu6kpjNSOsBnr55</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

<figure><img src="/files/HJJYAu7KN1gUSI10DWbH" alt=""><figcaption><p>Data Manager</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/HksnEWYq4kWeQkRtm4VF" alt=""><figcaption><p>Mate Drive</p></figcaption></figure>

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## **Trigger**

[**Triggers**](/userguide/autom-features/triggers.md) are essential for initiating and executing an Autom automatically based on specified events. Triggers can be configured to start an Autom when certain conditions are met, such as receiving an [**email**](/userguide/autom-features/triggers.md#email-trigger), a [**scheduled time**](/userguide/autom-features/triggers.md#scheduled-trigger), or a [**specific system event**](/userguide/autom-features/triggers.md#api-trigger). This functionality ensures that automation processes run autonomously without manual intervention.

<figure><img src="/files/hUsNFHrYrG2SoY6p367c" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## **Shortcuts**

The Quick Actions menu within Autom allows for executing simple actions individually or in groups, enhancing efficiency. Users can quickly access and run predefined actions or groups of actions from this menu, streamlining the execution of common tasks and processes.

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## **Action Control Center**

This feature provides inputs for selected actions within the Autom diagram. Users can configure actions directly from the [**Action Control Center** ](#action-control-center)by specifying parameters, inputs, and conditions required for each action. This ensures precise customization and control over the automation workflow.

<figure><img src="/files/A37d6MqRZgjTlWtCdOtB" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## **Debug Area**

The [**debug**](/userguide/autom-features/debug.md) menu offers access to error, warning, and info logs for actions, helping users identify and resolve issues efficiently. [**Users can view detailed logs**](broken://pages/NIR0UA388gqRI6EBOn1t) and diagnostic information to troubleshoot and optimize their Autom processes, ensuring smooth and error-free operation.

<figure><img src="/files/2xfx0XanDwyHVXIdwzyc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## Creating an Autom

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### [**Define Your Credentials**](/userguide/product-features/management/vault.md)

[**Access the Vault**](/userguide/product-features/management/vault.md) **:** Users should navigate to the Vault feature within Autom Mate to securely define credentials for establishing connections. The Vault ensures that sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and API keys are stored securely and accessed safely during automation.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [**App Credentials**](https://docs.autommate.com/userguide/product-features/management/vault#app-credential-management)

Create specific credentials for the applications involved. Details include:

* **Credential Name:** A unique identifier for the credential.
* **Application:** The associated application for which the credential is intended.
* **Authentication Type:** The type of authentication method (e.g., token, OAuth).
* **URL (if applicable):** Required for certain applications needing service connections.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [**Custom Credentials**](https://docs.autommate.com/userguide/product-features/management/vault#custom-credential-management)

Tailor credentials for specialized needs, such as bots or specific users. Details include:

* **Credential Name:** Name of the credential.
* **Request Status:** Indicates the approval status.
* **Access Type:** Specifies the type of access granted.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [**Creating Your Autom**](/userguide/product-features/create-autom.md)

Users can access [libraries ](/userguide/libraries.md)on the left side of the Autom Designer interface and select the desired libraries for integration. Libraries contain predefined actions that users can incorporate into their Autom diagrams.

* **Drag-and-Drop Method:** Drag selected actions from [libraries ](/userguide/libraries.md)onto the workboard and arrange them sequentially to create a logical flow. This method allows users to visually design the automation process step by step.
* **Configuring Actions:** Provide necessary input fields for each action based on Autom requirements to ensure proper functionality. Configuration involves setting parameters, inputs, and conditions specific to each action.
* **Connecting Actions:** Connect actions sequentially to establish the Autom's logic using connectors to define the flow of automation. Connectors create pathways between actions, indicating the order in which they should be executed.
* **Testing and Validation:** Test the Autom thoroughly to ensure functionality and validate each action's output. Testing involves running the Autom and checking if each action performs as expected, making adjustments as necessary.
* **Optimization and Refinement:** Continuously optimize Autom's by refining configurations, adjusting data mappings, adding error handling, and enhancing overall efficiency. This step involves improving the performance and reliability of the automation process.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

Autom Mate's Autom Designer provides a user-friendly interface for designing, executing, and optimizing automated workflows. By leveraging the comprehensive tools, [**libraries**](/userguide/libraries.md), and features outlined, users can efficiently create event schemas, manage [**variables**](/userguide/autom-features/variables.md), and integrate diverse applications into their Automs. For detailed instructions and specific use cases, users should refer to the relevant sections within this documentation. Autom Mate enables seamless task automation, improving productivity and operational efficiency within the organization.


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