Search and tool use architectures

Search and tool use architectures are patterns that enable agents to access data sources and invoke services to fulfill user requests beyond simple conversation. These architectures define how agents discover, retrieve, and interact with information and functionality outside their core language model capabilities.

These architectural patterns address recurring scenarios that development teams encounter when building enterprise agents. They provide proven approaches for common integration challenges while highlighting the trade-offs between different implementation strategies.

Use the following articles to learn more about search and tool use architectures:

• Search and retrieval patterns: Learn about primary patterns for implementing search and retrieval in agent architectures.
• Action and tool use patterns: Decide how your agent interacts with external systems and performs actions beyond simple information retrieval.