TagUI: Automating Tasks the Simple Way
TagUI offers a straightforward solution to automate repetitive, time-consuming tasks on your computer. It's an open-source project that supports automation for websites, desktop applications, and the command line. Initially developed by AI Singapore, the project’s ongoing support relies on community contributions, keeping it free and accessible across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Introduction to TagUI
TagUI allows users to write "flows," simple scripts that automate tasks in a language designed for Robotic Process Automation (RPA). These tasks can range from basic web interactions to complex desktop automations. With native support for Chrome and Edge, it's an excellent choice for web-based tasks.
Language and Efficiency
The TagUI language uses intuitive commands like click and type to interact with elements identified by web identifiers, images, screen coordinates, or even text using Optical Character Recognition (OCR). For instance, to log into the Xero accounting website, one would write:
https://login.xero.com/identity/user/login
type email as [email protected]
type password as 12345678
click Log in
The language supports automation in English and 22 other languages, allowing users to write RPA scripts in their native tongue. The introduction of the TagUI turbo mode further boosts efficiency by enabling automation at speeds up to ten times faster than typical human speed.
Broad Capabilities
TagUI handles data with ease, whether grabbing tables from web pages or exchanging data with Excel. For example, exporting a webpage table to a CSV file can be as simple as:
table n to forex_rates.csv
Additionally, moving data between TagUI and Excel can be performed seamlessly using familiar Excel formulae. Even sending notifications through Telegram is straightforward once the taguibot is authorized.
Creating RPA Robots
Users can create robots using Microsoft Office plugins, transforming Word documents into RPA bots and setting parameters in Excel. TagUI supports a range of text editors such as Notepad and VS Code, where you can extend features with language extensions or plugins.
Furthermore, some users might utilize AI and machine learning models to script RPA workflows, refining them based on predictive insights.
A Thriving Ecosystem
TagUI has a vibrant community that supports its growth. It serves as the foundation for numerous RPA tools and provides Python and C# .NET users with specific TagUI packages for integration. With TagUI’s module for Node-RED, a widely-used workflow automation tool, users can manage event-driven RPA processes with thousands of connectors.
Security Focused Design
TagUI operates directly from users’ computers, without the involvement of cloud services, thus ensuring data remains secure and compliant with privacy needs. Basic security practices are advised for sensitive data handling, including using encryption and securing data during input and output processes.
Getting Started
New users can dive into TagUI through an accessible learning pathway. Free courses, community support through platforms like Telegram, and comprehensive guides ensure users can quickly master TagUI. A series of YouTube tutorials further facilitate step-by-step learning.
In summary, TagUI presents a versatile platform for users seeking to automate tasks using a straightforward scripting language. Its community's active involvement and the simplicity of its tools make it the go-to choice for those interested in RPA solutions.