> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.diaflow.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.diaflow.io/studio/type-of-workflows.md).

# Type of workflows

In Diaflow Studio, workflows are defined by how they are triggered. When you build a workflow from scratch, you can choose to activate it automatically based on system events, or manually through direct human interaction.

Depending on your use case, you can select from the following two main categories:

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## 1. Automatic Triggers

Automatic workflows run in the background without any manual intervention. They are highly efficient for syncing data, sending notifications, and scheduling routine tasks.

* On app event: The workflow is triggered automatically when a specific action occurs in a connected external application. *(Example: A workflow starts whenever a new lead is created in Salesforce or a new row is added to Google Sheets).*
* Schedule: The workflow executes at specific, predefined time intervals. You can configure it to run daily, weekly, or at exact times. *(Example: Running a "Marketing Weekly Report" every Monday at 8:00 AM).*
* Webhook: The workflow listens for incoming data payloads from external systems via a unique Webhook URL. As soon as the data is pushed to this URL, the workflow activates and processes it in real-time.

## 2. Manual Triggers

Manual workflows require direct user action to begin. These are ideal for internal tools, data entry interfaces, and on-demand AI agents where a human needs to provide the initial context or input.

* Click a button: The workflow executes when a user clicks a designated action button within a Diaflow App or Page. *(Example: Clicking a button to "Review & Format CV" or "Generate Short Video").*
* Submit a form: The workflow starts when a user fills out and submits a data form. The submitted data is instantly passed into the workflow as input variables to be processed. *(Example: Submitting a new employee onboarding form).*
* Chat: The workflow is triggered via a conversational interface. A user sends a message or prompt, and the workflow acts as an AI agent to process the request, execute steps, and return a response. *(Example: Interacting with an internal HR or IT Support chatbot).*

{% hint style="info" %}
Tip: Start by identifying who or what needs to initiate the task. If it relies on a human providing input on the spot, choose a Manual Trigger. If it should happen independently based on rules or time, choose an Automatic Trigger.
{% endhint %}

### Next steps

* Learn how to [create a workflow](/studio/manage-a-workflow/create-a-workflow.md).
* Learn how to [manage a workflow](/studio/manage-a-workflow/manage-a-workflow.md).
* Browse the [Node Reference](/studio/nodes.md).