Updates fields on an existing automation. Pass a partial updates object with only the fields you want to change; omitted fields are preserved. Toggling enabled or changing schedule/channel/condition takes effect on the next scheduled run. Direct execution is webhook-only; use agent mode for insight discovery, email, and provider-backed channels.
Behavior:
- Saves the change to the same automation record. Scheduled automations with an active workflow are restarted on update so the next run picks up the latest config.
- Errors when the perspective or automation is not found, or you do not have access.
- For HubSpot, the workspace's HubSpot connection is re-checked — errors with "Could not resolve HubSpot portal ID — please reconnect HubSpot" if disconnected.
- Webhook channels: do NOT ask the user for the endpoint URL or credentials — neither is accepted through this tool. The stored URL/auth header are preserved when the channel is re-specified, switching to a webhook channel starts disabled, and enabling errors until the URL has been set at configure_url (returned in the response).
- For scheduled automations: changes to channel, condition, execution mode, instruction, or message template apply starting from the next run, not the one currently in flight.
When to use this tool:
- Toggling enabled on or off (also pauses/resumes scheduled sends).
- Changing schedule, channel, condition, instruction, or message_template on a live automation.
When NOT to use this tool:
- Removing the automation entirely — use automation_delete.
- Verifying a config change actually delivers — follow up with automation_test.
- Listing what's configured — use automation_list.