The difference in four points
✓ Question or assignment: A chatbot gets a question, an agent a goal.
✓ One turn or several: An agent takes steps in sequence.
✓ Talking or doing: An agent prepares or carries out actions.
✓ Standalone or connected: An agent needs access to your systems.
When is a chatbot enough?
A chatbot is fine for questions with a fixed answer. Opening hours, delivery terms, frequently asked questions. Anyone looking for that does not need an agent.
It changes the moment the answer has to come from your systems. Where is my order, which item did I buy last time, does warranty still apply. Those are not fixed answers, those are lookups.
From that point you need an agent, because it may query your ERP and give the real answer instead of a referral.
Same question, two systems
- Chatbot: what is the lead time? A fixed answer from a list.
- Agent: what is the lead time on this item for me? An answer from your ERP.
- Chatbot: how do I request a quote? A pointer to a form.
- Agent: prepare a draft quote from this enquiry.
In practice many companies start with a chat and grow into an agent once the integration is in place.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
You are in the right place if…
You already have
a chatbot
That often refers on instead of answering.
Customers ask
about their order
A chatbot cannot know that, an agent can.
You are unsure about
the investment
Ask whether the answer sits in your systems.
You want the
right vocabulary
So you know what a supplier is actually offering.
WHY IDCREATION?
Flemish plain speaking. Technical depth.
We build both, and we also say when a chatbot is enough. That is cheaper for you in the long run and more credible for us.
ASP.NET specialists
Robust, enterprise-grade applications, no cowboy code.
Honest & transparent
Fixed prices, clear scope. No surprises on the invoice.
Your data stays yours
Agreed up front: where your data is processed and stored.
Direct contact
No ticketing system. Direct contact with your project manager.
CHATBOT OR AGENT, WHICH FITS YOU?
Tell us which questions come up most often. More on what an AI agent actually is.
