Start with one repeatable outcome
Choose a bounded task with a clear output and a way to check it. Good first tasks reduce repeated preparation while leaving important decisions with a human owner.
- Prepare a recurring management summary.
- Compare approved supplier files.
- Review public website updates through connected tools.
- Turn project notes into an action list.
Define the inputs and the result
Tell AI Work what to read, what to produce and which facts matter. Attach supported files or use approved website tools. Include a document format, reporting period and named reviewer. Set a rule for missing inputs: flag the task as incomplete instead of silently inventing an answer.
Choose a supported schedule
Local jobs support one-time, daily and weekly schedules. Specify the intended time zone and operating calendar. Scheduled execution depends on an available runner; a saved instruction does not guarantee that work will run while the required machine or service is unavailable.
Connect tools deliberately
A task can use only the integrations and permissions that are actually configured. Review the required access before enabling it. Reading a public page, drafting a message and sending a message are different actions; make the intended result explicit.
Review results and handle exceptions
Return to the task to inspect its status and saved output. Look for missing sources, failed steps and assumptions before using a result. Adjust the brief when recurring output is incomplete rather than continuing to repeat the same failure.
- State the expected output and quality checks.
- Name the person who reviews the result.
- Define when the task should stop for missing information.
- Approve consequential external actions separately.
Use automation where execution is supported
AI-generated plans and summaries work within the available workspace tools. External writes, messages and other actions depend on the actual integration and runner capabilities. Set up and check a small run before relying on a recurring workflow for a business deadline.
A brief to try
Every Monday at 09:00 Asia/Dubai, prepare a procurement summary from the approved files. Group open items by owner, show amounts in AED and highlight missing delivery dates. Save a draft for review; do not send messages or place orders.
Illustrative example. Replace assumptions with your approved business information.
Common questions
Does a written schedule automatically run?
No. Configure a supported scheduled job and ensure its runner and required connections are available.
Can it work with my files?
AI Work supports selected file inputs. The interface shows supported formats and size limits; extraction quality depends on the source file.
Will it send messages automatically?
Only when a connected tool supports that action and the task has the necessary authorisation. A request to prepare a draft does not authorise sending it.