Simple Chat

Create an action

Create a reusable tool that an agent can call when chat alone is not enough.

What this does

An action is a governed tool definition that lets an agent call an API, database, built-in utility, file source, or MCP server. This guide creates an action in a workspace and leaves it ready to attach to an agent.

Video planned

Create an action walkthrough

Recording planned. Show create an action end to end and explain why this task helps a user.

To publish this video:

  1. Upload the recording to YouTube or Microsoft Stream.
  2. Save a poster frame as docs/images/video-posters/guide-create-an-action.png.
  3. Add the watch URL to this slot in docs/_data/media.yml.

Why you would use this

Use an action when a model needs to do more than write an answer, such as query a read-only system or call an approved service. It replaces manual lookups and pasted context, but it is the wrong choice for unrestricted network access, unapproved tools, or secrets that should not be stored in SimpleChat.

Before you start

  • An admin must enable enable_semantic_kernel and allow actions with allow_user_plugins or allow_group_plugins; see Agents settings.
  • Workspace actions require per_user_semantic_kernel when actions are personal or group scoped.
  • Have the OpenAPI file, endpoint, credential, reusable identity, or MCP server details required by the action type.

Steps

  1. Open Personal Workspace or the target Group Workspace.
  2. Choose Your Actions or the Actions tab.
  3. Select Add Action or the workspace new action button.
  1. On Select Action Type, search for the type you need, such as OpenAPI, MCP, Log Analytics, or another enabled card.
  2. Enter Display Name, review Name, and write a Description that tells agent authors when to use it.
  3. Complete the type-specific configuration, including OpenAPI Specification File, Base URL, Authentication Type, Reusable Identity, or MCP discovery fields when shown.
  1. Use Test Connection when available, then save the action.

Verify it worked

The action appears in the Actions list or card view. When you create or edit an agent, it is available on the agent Actions step.

Troubleshooting

Symptom Likely cause Fix
The Actions tab is missing Actions are disabled for your workspace or account Ask an admin to enable enable_semantic_kernel and the matching action scope.
Test Connection fails The endpoint, identity, or credential cannot reach the target service Fix the connection details and test again before saving.