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Triggers

Triggers define how and when a flow begins.
You can configure them to start automatically, on a schedule, or through external API calls.
Trigger
Triggers connect your assistant to external workflows and automation systems.

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Trigger Types

Phinite supports three trigger types.
API-based triggers allow external applications to start a specific flow.Use Case
  • When you need real-time activation from an external event such as a form submission or webhook.
Configuration
  • Requires an API key defined at the workspace level.
  • Called via an HTTP POST request.
Example
POST https://api.phinite.ai/trigger/<flow_id>
Headers:
  Authorization: Bearer <workspace_api_key>
Best For Fast, real-time executions where the response completes within seconds.
Scheduler-based triggers start flows at fixed intervals or specific times.Use CaseUse this for periodic automation such as daily reports, nightly data syncs, or batch processing.Configuration
  • Define a start time and recurrence (hourly, daily, weekly, or custom cron).
  • Ideal for long-running flows that might exceed API timeouts.
Best ForBackground processes that do not require immediate response.

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Choose the Right Trigger

ScenarioRecommended TriggerReason
External app sends an event that needs immediate actionAPI-BasedInstant activation with minimal latency
Recurring process such as reports or sync tasksScheduler-BasedPrevents timeout and automates repetition

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Configure a Trigger

1

Go to Assistants → Components → Triggers.

2

Click Create Trigger.

3

Select the Trigger Type (API, Scheduler, or Manual).

4

Choose the Target Flow.

5

Set API Key or scheduling options.

6

Save and test the trigger.

Tip

Use scheduler-based triggers for long-running workflows that may exceed standard API timeout limits.

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Manage Triggers

ActionDescription
EditUpdate type, frequency, or target flow
PauseTemporarily disable the trigger
Run NowExecute immediately for testing
DeleteRemove from the workspace permanently

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Workspace API Keys

API-based triggers depend on workspace-level API keys for authentication.
Store and rotate keys securely. Never expose API keys in client-side or public repositories.

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Best Practices

  • Use API triggers for short, transactional events.
  • Use Scheduler triggers for background or recurring jobs.
  • Avoid attaching multiple triggers to the same flow unless needed.
  • Test each trigger thoroughly in the development environment before deploying to production.