What is n8n?
n8n is a tool that allows you to automate everything from daily tasks to complex operations. It is a workflow-based platform that provides a graphical user interface (GUI) to help you set up automation with minimal coding requirements, unlike the more complicated process of setting up your own Model (MCP) Context Protocol Server and agents.
What Exactly is n8n?
n8n is a workflow automation tool that acts as a connector between various applications. It allows you to create automations that integrate your apps, social media, email, and more. Essentially, you set up agents using API tokens from your applications. With these workflows, you can enable AI to take action, organize data, aggregate information, and perform tasks based on the requirements of your daily life or business.
Simple Use case for n8n
Saving Email Attachments
You can set up n8n to scan your email for invoices, receipts, or any other data you need to process. With n8n, you can create workflows that monitor and manage your inbox, saving you and your employees countless hours. Imagine missing a few emails and not having the accurate information you need, which could cost you a sale. Our inboxes receive a variety of messages, and you can configure n8n to automatically grab any email attachments and save them directly to your Google Drive.
Complex use case for n8n
Customer Support Ticket Sorting
You are working in a fast-paced environment when a customer submits a support ticket. The ticket may need to be forwarded to several different teams. n8n can automatically read the email content using AI. If the email is about a payment issue, n8n sends it to the finance team. If it concerns a customer-reported software bug, it forwards the ticket to the development team. This process eliminates the need for a tier 1 team to manually sort through tickets to determine which team should handle each issue.
What else can it do?
- → Data Syncing
- → Automate HR Onboarding
- → Posting across social media
- → Generate or fix images
- → Processing and notification
If you have an available API, can create one, or prefer a low-code solution to utilize AI for data aggregation, processing, transformation, or notifications, n8n will fulfill your requirements.
Start Fast with Templates
You don't have to start from scratch. The product has been in the community for some time, so there's likely something that already meets your needs. n8n offers a large library of templates you can use right away. Check out the link below to start exploring templates that may work for you.
Still not Sure? See n8n in Action
▶ freeCodeCamp n8n Zero to Hero
Conclusion
Automation is now accessible to everyone, and n8n makes it easy to save time. I recommend starting with simple tasks and gradually working your way up to more complex projects. While there is a slight learning curve, most tools come with one. However, the time you invest in learning and automating processes will pay off, allowing you to take on more projects you previously didn't have time for. Give n8n a try and discover how much time you can save.