Proto by ERP•AI is an AI-powered desktop agent designed to automate business workflows, build apps on top of ERP systems, and manage routine tasks without coding. The tool bridges existing systems—files on your computer, web applications like CRMs and email, and ERP•AI databases—by understanding plain-language instructions, taking actions, and providing oversight. Its aim is to reduce manual work in areas like reporting, document handling, and process automation while maintaining transparency and security.
Key Features
Proto supports a wide range of business activities with multiple built-in controls:
Workflow automation and no-code app creation: Users can describe processes in everyday language—such as handling purchase orders, supplier reviews, or sales pipelines—and Proto builds native ERP•AI apps with tables, dashboards, and workflows. Sample data testing is part of the setup for review before going live.
Rich system integrations: Proto works with local files (Excel, CSV, PDFs, images), Word and PowerPoint documents, web apps you are logged into (for example, webmail or CRMs), and with ERP•AI’s own apps and record systems. Experimental support exists for operating desktop applications.
Two modes of operation: “Uninterrupted mode,” the default for new installs, allows Proto to carry out actions automatically; turning this off forces Proto to ask for user approval on potentially sensitive steps (e.g., bulk updates, deletions, payments). All actions are logged and auditable.
Model flexibility: By default, Proto uses ERP•AI’s managed model plan. Alternatively, users can supply API keys from providers like OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Gemini, OpenRouter, or Fireworks, or use Codex via ChatGPT. The quality and cost of model usage depend on the provider and plan selected.
Role-based permissions and governance: Agents act under the same permissions granted to users. Sensitive actions are disabled by default unless explicitly enabled. Auditing and approval workflows enable safer deployment in regulated or risk-sensitive environments.
Pricing
Proto is currently in alpha. The desktop application itself is free to download and use, and the core free tier covers basic workflows. However, certain usage incurs costs:
If you use your own API key for an external model provider, that provider bills you directly for model usage.
If you use ERP•AI’s managed model connection, you pay via Proto Credits—ERP•AI’s internal currency where each Credit equals one US dollar. Charges include costs for model usage, web search, image requests, schema and page builds, and any ERP•AI platform resources Proto activates.
There is no published enterprise plan or service-level agreement (SLA) stated during the alpha period; businesses with advanced needs are encouraged to contact ERP•AI to discuss fit.
For the underlying ERP•AI platform, there are metered rates for record retention and managed file storage. Also, model costs are subject to an 8% agent fee when using certain provider connections.
Who is it for?
Proto is particularly suited for business owners, operations leaders, and IT decision-makers looking to automate repetitive workflows without custom development. Companies that might benefit include:
Small to medium-sized enterprises where ERP processes (finance, supply chain, CRM) are handled manually or across multiple tools, and where team members already work with spreadsheets, email, and PDFs in addition to formal systems.
Businesses seeking no-code solutions: organizations without large developer teams that want to describe what they need rather than build it from scratch. Proto is useful in translating descriptions into dashboards, apps, and process automations.
Teams with compliance or oversight requirements. The permission models, user approvals, and audit trails make Proto appropriate where control is essential (e.g., finance departments, procurement, HR).
Early adopters or experimental settings: because Proto is in alpha, businesses must be comfortable with shifting features, evolving file format support, and perhaps instability. It’s less suitable for mission-critical tasks where SLA guarantees are needed.
Final thoughts
Proto by ERP•AI offers a compelling mix of automation, governance, and flexibility, especially useful for organizations seeking to streamline ERP-related workflows without hiring developers. Its ability to use existing files, web tools, and ERP data to build apps and automate tasks gives it a strong place among agent tools. However, the alpha status, evolving features, and lack of publicly documented enterprise SLAs mean Proto is best for pilot programs or less critical workflows—for now. Businesses evaluating Proto should closely consider risks around data security, reliability, and compliance alongside potential productivity gains.
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