What are AI Agents?

by IBM Technology

📚 Main Topics

  1. Introduction to AI Agents

    • Definition and significance of AI agents in 2024.
    • Shift from monolithic models to compound AI systems.
  2. Limitations of Monolithic Models

    • Dependency on training data.
    • Difficulty in adaptation and tuning.
  3. Compound AI Systems

    • Integration of models into existing processes.
    • Example of a vacation planning system.
    • Importance of system design and modularity.
  4. Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)

    • Explanation of RAG as a common compound AI system.
    • Control logic and its role in query resolution.
  5. Agentic Approach with Large Language Models (LLMs)

    • Enhancements in reasoning capabilities of LLMs.
    • Spectrum of control: fast vs. slow thinking.
  6. Capabilities of LLM Agents

    • Reasoning: Planning and problem-solving.
    • Acting: Utilizing external tools and APIs.
    • Memory: Storing and retrieving past interactions.
  7. Configuration of Agents

    • Introduction to ReACT (Reasoning and Acting).
    • Example of a complex problem: calculating sunscreen needs for a vacation.
  8. Future of Compound AI Systems

    • Expected growth in agent technology.
    • Trade-offs in AI autonomy for narrow vs. complex problems.

✨ Key Takeaways

  • AI agentsare expected to play a crucial role in 2024, moving beyond traditional models to more complex systems.
  • Monolithic modelsare limited by their training data and are not easily adaptable, while compound AI systems can integrate various components for better performance.
  • RAG systemsexemplify how control logic can guide AI in resolving queries effectively.
  • LLMscan enhance the reasoning process, allowing for more sophisticated problem-solving approaches.
  • The ReACT frameworkcombines reasoning and acting, enabling agents to tackle complex tasks by breaking them down into manageable parts.
  • The future of AI will see a balance between programmatic efficiencyfor narrow tasks and agentic flexibility for complex queries.

🧠 Lessons Learned

  • Building systems around AI models can significantly improve their accuracy and utility.
  • Understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI models is essential for effective implementation.
  • The design of AI systems should consider the nature of the tasks they are intended to solve, whether narrow or complex.
  • Continuous advancements in AI technology will lead to more autonomous and capable systems, but human oversight will remain important for accuracy and reliability.

Keywords: IBM IBM Cloud Artificial Intelligence AI Generative AI Gen AI AI agents compound AI systems generative AI shifts large language models LLM system design AI integration retrieval augmented generation RAG RAG systems AI autonomy reasoning models external tools in AI