> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.oration.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Tools

> How to extend your agent's capabilities with Tools in Oration AI

## What are Tools?

Agents created using the Assistants API can be equipped with **tools** that allow them to perform more complex tasks or interact with your application.

* Transfer calls or end calls
* Access external data or APIs
* Trigger workflows in your business systems
* Send SMS messages, update records, and more

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## Setting Up a Custom Tool

You can create a custom tool action directly from the Oration AI dashboard. Here’s how to use the **Create Action** form:

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/oration/30YYqnCV1Lr1_fNI/images/tools.gif?s=e3ac0a9298ce9117e591343cedfe53ff" alt="Post Call Analysis" width="100%" loading="lazy" data-path="images/tools.gif" />

### Field Explanations

* **Name**\
  The name of your tool action. Choose something descriptive (e.g., "Get Weather", "Update CRM Contact").

* **Method**\
  Select the HTTP method for your API call. Options: `GET`, `POST`, `PUT`, `DELETE`, `PATCH`, `OPTIONS`, `HEAD`.

* **Description**\
  Briefly describe what this tool does. This helps you and your team understand its purpose.

* **Url Template**\
  The endpoint your tool will call. You can use variables if needed (e.g., `https://api.example.com/users/{{userId}}`).

* **Body Template**\
  (Optional) The request body to send with your API call. Use this for `POST`, `PUT`, or `PATCH` methods.

* **Speech During Execution**\
  (Optional) What the agent should say while the tool is running (e.g., "Let me check that for you...").

* **Speech After Execution**\
  (Optional) What the agent should say after the tool finishes (e.g., "I've updated your information.").

* **Is Async**\
  Enable this if you want the function to run in the background, such as uploading results silently.

* **Schema**\
  Provide a valid OpenAI-compatible JSON schema describing the parameters your tool expects.

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## Example Use Cases

* **Updating CRM records** during a call
* **Sending follow-up SMS** after a conversation
* **Fetching product information** from your database

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## Best Practices

* Use clear, descriptive names and descriptions for each tool.
* Test your API endpoints before connecting them to your agent.
* Use the speech fields to keep users informed during longer operations.
* Keep your JSON schema up to date for accurate parameter validation.

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> Need more help? Reach out to our team at [support@oration.ai](mailto:support@oration.ai)