What Are AI Agents?
The idea of a software “agent” isn’t new — but the current generation of AI-driven agents marks a major shift in how software operates. Unlike traditional applications that wait for human input, agents act independently, execute tasks across systems, and learn from feedback. They don’t just assist humans — they extend them.
AI agents are autonomous entities capable of perceiving their environment, reasoning about goals, and taking actions without explicit human direction. They interact through APIs, workflows, and protocols like the Model Context Protocol (MCP), connecting seamlessly to tools, systems, and users.
These agents represent a structural change in how software gets developed and maintained. As organizations adopt them, they’ll need to rethink their infrastructure, governance, and readiness — not just in terms of code, but control.
➡ Take the GetReadyForAgents Assessment to discover your readiness level.
