Description:

AI-powered automation is no longer limited to developers. With tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Zapier, non-technical professionals can now build intelligent workflows that automate repetitive tasks, streamline communication, and enhance productivity.

This workshop introduces participants to the concept of AI-powered automation and agents, showing how generative AI can be combined with no-code tools to take action across everyday business applications. Participants will learn how to create custom GPTs, use Claude as a thinking partner, and connect tools through Zapier to automate real-world workflows.

The session emphasizes practical demonstrations and step-by-step guidance. By the end, participants will understand how to design and implement simple AI automations without writing code.

Duration:

Half Day

Course Code: BDT 610

Learning Objectives:

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand how AI automation and “AI agents” work in a no-code environment
2. Use ChatGPT and Claude to generate and structure automated workflows
3. Build and configure custom GPTs for specific tasks
4. Understand how Zapier connects apps to automate workflows without coding
5. Design simple end-to-end automations (trigger → AI → action)
6. Identify high-impact automation opportunities in their work
7. Apply prompt techniques to improve automation reliability

Recognize risks and limitations of AI-driven automation

No technical background required. Suitable for professionals interested in automating workflows using AI tools.

Course Outline:

Introduction to AI Automation and Agents

1. What is AI automation
2. Introduction to “AI agents” and how they perform tasks
3. How generative AI + tools enables end-to-end workflows
4. Examples of real-world automations (email, reporting, task management)

Using ChatGPT for Automation

1. ChatGPT as a workflow “brain” for task execution and automation
2. Generating structured outputs for automation (emails, summaries, data)
3. Using ChatGPT to design and break down workflows step-by-step
4. Demonstration:
   1. Turning a manual process into an AI-assisted workflow using ChatGPT

Building Custom GPTs for Task Automation

1. What custom GPTs are and how they work
2. Creating task-specific GPTs
3. Using instructions, knowledge, and tools within GPTs
4. Demonstration:
   1. Building a simple custom GPT for a business use case

Introduction to Zapier (No-Code Automation Platform)

1. What Zapier is and how it works (triggers and actions)
2. Connecting apps (e.g., Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets)
3. Understanding workflows (“Zaps”) and multi-step automation
4. Demonstration:
   1. Automating a workflow

Using Claude Cowork for Automation

1. Introducing Claude Cowork as your AI desktop assistant for everyday workplace tasks
2. Describing outcomes in plain language (no coding or technical setup required)
3. Using Claude as the "thinking layer" that drafts, summarizes, and refines content automatically
4. Connecting Cowork to workplace tools like Slack and Google Workspace
5. Scheduling recurring tasks: daily briefings, weekly reports, meeting recaps
6. Demonstration:
   1. Transforming a repetitive manual task into a fully automated, repeatable Cowork workflow

Prompting for Reliable Automation

1. Structuring prompts for consistent outputs
2. Reducing errors and ambiguity
3. Using templates for repeatable workflows
4. Iterating and testing automation outputs

Risks and Best Practices

• AI errors and “hallucinations” in automated workflows
• Over-automation and loss of human oversight
• Data privacy and tool permissions

Training material provided:

Yes (Digital format)