Key Characteristics of Tools
Effective tools share the following characteristics:Task-Specific
Each tool performs a single, well-defined task. They should not be focused on an API, but rather on whatever it takes to complete the task.
Configurable
Tools can be configured to perform the same task in different ways. The agent must be able to adapt based on previous circumstances.
Reusable
Tools must be easily reusable not only by the same agent, but also across different agents. Each tool should have specific instructions on how to use it.
What are Tools?
At a high level, tools represent the capabilities that your agents have. Tools enable your agents to perform specific tasks necessary to fulfill their designated roles. For instance, just as a real virtual assistant can search the web or send emails, the virtual assistant agent can be equipped with similar tools. Below are some more examples of tools:- FileWriter: A tool that allows an agent to write code or text to a file.
- CommandExecutor: A tool that allows an agent to execute terminal commands.
- LeadUpdater: A tool that allows an agent to update a lead in a CRM.
- LinkedInProfileScraper: A tool that allows an agent to scrape a LinkedIn profile.
- FacebookAdCreator: A tool that allows an agent to create a Facebook ad.
By themselves, each of these tools is not very useful, however in combination with each other, they allow agents to perform a much wider range of tasks.For example,
FileWriter
tool by itself can allow the developer agent to write code, however, in combination with the CommandExecutor
tool, it can also run and test its own code, which instantly makes it more powerful. (We’ll cover the key characteristics of tools in a bit.)
3 Ways to Build Tools
When it comes to building your own tools, you have 3 primary options:Custom Tools
Build your own completely custom tools from scratch. (Recommended)
Pre-Made Tools
Import out-of-the-box pre-made tools from the special agency-tools open source repository.
OpenAPI Schemas
Use public OpenAPI schemas and convert them into tools.