Tool Use

Tool use is the capability of a large language model to invoke external functions: such as querying a database, sending a message, or updating a record. It transforms a language model from a chatbot into an agent that can act on the world.

For tool use to work reliably, the model must understand when a tool is needed, format the request correctly, and interpret the response. This requires clear tool descriptions, structured schemas, and sometimes retry logic.

The OpsForEnergy agents use tool use to interact with Supabase, Telegram, and email inboxes. The Permit Agent might call a "update_permit_status" tool; the Field Agent might call "log_daily_report". Each tool is narrowly scoped and validated before execution.