Build a workflow from a real task
The best workflows start from a real task your team already understands. Do not begin with "make an AI workflow." Begin with the manual review, report, comparison, or checklist you want to make repeatable.
Start with the manual process
Write down:
- Who runs the task today
- What files they open
- What they look for
- What judgment calls they make
- What output they produce
- How another person reviews the result
If the manual process is unclear, the workflow will be unclear too.
Define the first version
Keep the first workflow small:
- One task
- One type of input
- One expected output
- One review standard or checklist
- One clear success condition
For example, start with "check five sheets against this drafting standard" before trying "review every discipline in a full project set."
Use the builder
In the workflow builder:
- Give the workflow a task-shaped name.
- Add requested files for inputs that change every run.
- Add context files for references that stay the same.
- Write instructions as steps.
- Specify the output format.
- Save the workflow as private while testing.
Test and iterate
Run the workflow on a small sample and check:
- Did it ask for the right files?
- Did it inspect the right pages or sections?
- Did it miss known issues?
- Did it cite useful sources?
- Is the output easy for a reviewer to use?
- Was the run cost appropriate for the value?
Edit the workflow before sharing it with a wider group.