What is Automation?

"Automation" is a term used to describe the process of using computer software to complete tasks that would otherwise require human intervention or labor. In most cases, automation is applied when a task can be described in terms of precise instructions for a computer program to execute. Automated processes typically have a designated start and end state and may involve multiple intermediate steps. When an automated process becomes complex or requires interaction with humans, it may be referred to as "artificial intelligence," or AI.

Articles related to software automation describe how to automate behind-the-scenes processes without coding. These articles include instructions on how to perform common tasks with a command line interface and may be useful for developers who want to create and configure tools without writing code.