Agentic Automation is gaining traction in the market. Gartner predicts that by 2028, at least 15% of daily work decisions will be made autonomously through Agentic AI, compared to 0% in 2024.
The goal-driven capabilities of this technology will deliver more adaptable software systems capable of performing a wide variety of tasks.
The technology promises efficiency and scalability, but this evolution also brings critical challenges: how can we ensure these agents operate safely and reliably?
Without governance, the autonomy of these agents can pose risks to businesses. That’s why, in this article, we’ll explore what Agentic AI is and why Agentic automation governance is essential. Check it out!
What is Agentic AI?
Agentic AI Automation takes RPA to the next level, combining artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and process automation to create agents that not only execute tasks but also make autonomous decisions based on data and context.
This allows businesses to handle complex processes more efficiently, reducing the need for human intervention. However, as these agents gain more independence, control and governance become critical factors in mitigating operational risks.
Agentic AI vs. Traditional AI
Artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly, and one of the most promising advancements is Agentic AI. While traditional AI systems are designed to solve specific tasks within predefined parameters, Agentic AI goes further, making decisions more independently and adjusting its actions based on context.
Learn more: What is intelligent automation?
Key Differences
Autonomy
When considering autonomy, the key characteristics are:
Traditional AI
-
Operates under human supervision or with predefined rules;
-
Relies on direct commands and does not act independently.
-
Example: A résumé screening system that only classifies candidates based on keywords, without understanding the context of their experience.
Agentic AI
-
Works autonomously, adjusting its behavior as needed;
-
Can identify new opportunities or risks without human intervention.
-
Example: A recruitment platform that not only filters resumes but also analyzes patterns, suggests promising candidates, and alerts recruiters to market trends.
Proactivity
There are also differences in problem anticipation. See below:
Traditional AI
-
Focuses on responding to predefined commands or data;
-
Lacks initiative to modify its course of action.
Example: An automated email system that sends scheduled messages without considering changes in user behavior.
Agentic AI
-
Predicts scenarios and dynamically adjusts to optimize results;
-
Can create strategies and modify its own functioning based on new information.
Example: A virtual assistant for customer support that detects dissatisfaction patterns and suggests process improvements for the company.
Adaptation
Regarding adaptation, the main differences are:
Traditional AI
-
Operates based on historical data and fixed rules;
-
Requires manual updates to adapt to changes.
Example: A movie recommendation system that suggests titles only based on previous views.
Agentic AI
-
Learns and adapts in real-time without needing reprogramming;
-
Adjusts its approach as new information emerges.
Example: An online learning platform that detects a student’s difficulty with a specific topic and automatically modifies the content to provide more detailed explanations.
Decision-Making
Finally, here are the key points related to decision-making:
Traditional AI
-
Follows a predefined set of rules and does not evaluate complex options;
-
Requires human intervention to determine the best strategy.
Example: An inventory management system that only generates alerts when a product is running low, without assessing whether restocking is necessary or if alternative products are available.
Agentic AI
-
Makes strategic decisions considering different variables and objectives;
-
Can find innovative solutions without relying on explicit commands.
Example: An intelligent logistics system that not only monitors inventory but also automatically reorganizes deliveries to optimize costs and reduce waste.
Governance and Security for Agentic AI
Agentic AI offers numerous advantages for businesses, but its implementation requires a robust approach to governance and security.
Since these agents access critical data and execute automated workflows, it is essential to establish preventive measures to mitigate operational risks and cybersecurity threats.
Based on the article “Agentic automation has huge potential – so long as you control the risks”, published on Diginomica, here are ways to prepare for security risks associated with this new technology:
Security Barriers
One of the most critical challenges of Agentic AI is its vulnerability to prompt injection attacks. In this threat, the technology can be manipulated through malicious inputs hidden in emails, documents, or web pages.
If an AI model is compromised, it may trigger harmful actions such as:
-
Leakage of sensitive information;
-
Unauthorized modification of system settings;
-
Execution of unauthorized financial transactions.
Given the difficulty in distinguishing legitimate instructions from manipulated commands, it is necessary to implement security barriers to minimize risks.
Human oversight and centralized governance
The human factor remains essential for monitoring and validating the technology’s actions.
Governance should define appropriate levels of autonomy, ensuring that all decisions follow clear rules and are approved by experts.
Everything clear about Agentic AI?
As we’ve seen, Agentic AI has the potential to transform how businesses automate tasks and make decisions. However, to fully leverage its capabilities without compromising security, it is crucial to implement a solid governance strategy.
At BotCity, we believe that automation only delivers value when aligned with strong governance practices. Our platform offers solutions that combine RPA with centralized oversight, ensuring that all automated workflows operate securely and efficiently.
Want to learn more about how BotCity can help your business? Talk to one of our experts today!
