n8n (pronounced “n-eight-n”) is an open-source workflow automation platform that allows you to build powerful, automated processes by connecting different apps and services.
It’s similar to tools like Zapier or Make, but unlike most competitors, n8n is open-source, self-hostable, and built for both no-code users and developers who want fine-grained control.
Workflows are made of nodes connected in a visual interface. A simple workflow might look like:


Stepping further, there are some intermediate tricks to explore:
- Use custom credentials to securely manage API keys.
- Use Function Nodes to manipulate data with JavaScript.
- Store values globally with Static Data for stateful workflows.
- Set up error handling paths for fault-tolerant automations.
Nate Herk has already founded an AI company leveraging n8n to serve small business.
Given the enhanced control offered and its free open source nature, it presents a superior alternative to Zapier. The immediate project aims to utilize this agent workflow to facilitate content creation and enable automated posting with human oversight.