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Overview
SpiderAI allows users to create custom AI Assistants. Assistants are specialized chatbots configured with tailored instructions, tools, files, and permissions. Assistants can support classes, research projects, administrative workflows, or department-specific needs. This article explains what Assistants are, how to create them, how to manage access, and tips for ensuring they perform effectively.
Details / Instructions
What Are Assistants?
Assistants are customizable AI agents that you configure with specific behaviors, tools, and context. They can:
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Follow predefined instructions
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Use tools such as Web Search, File Search, or Python
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Reference uploaded documents
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Appear with a custom icon in the SpiderAI Assistant Store
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Be shared with individual users or access groups
Assistants are ideal for repeatable tasks or specialized knowledge areas.
How to Create an Assistant
Step 1: Open the Developer Portal
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Log in to SpiderAI.
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Navigate to Developer Options from the main menu.
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Select My Assistants.
Step 2: Create a New Assistant
Click Create New Assistant to begin the setup process.
Step 3: Configure Assistant Settings
You will configure several key components:
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Name and Description
Choose a clear, descriptive name and purpose.
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Assistant Information
This message appears to users when the assistant loads and serves as the model’s first system message.
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Instructions
Provide detailed behavioral instructions for the assistant.
(Example: “You are an assistant that helps students interpret biology lab data.”)
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Model Selection
Choose which AI model powers your assistant.
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Tool Selection
Enable relevant tools (Web Search, Python, File Search, Image Generation, etc.).
You may optionally allow users to toggle tools themselves.
• Instructional Mode: See how the model works behind the scenes.
• Prompt Clarification: AI asks clarifying questions to better understand request.
• Web Search: Access real-time information from the internet
• Image Generation: Create images using AI.
• File Search: Search uploaded documents.
• Python Tool: Write and execute Python code.
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File Uploads
Upload supporting documents such as syllabi, datasets, rubrics, or reference materials.
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Icon Design
Create an icon that will represent your assistant in the store and on dashboards.
Step 4: Set Access Controls
Access Groups determine who can use your assistant. These are optional and only need to be set if you wish to share your assistant with others. It is possible to create an assistant for your use alone.
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Navigate to Developer Options > My Access Groups
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Create or select a group
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Configure whitelist/blacklist settings
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Assign your assistant to the appropriate group
Step 5: Test and Deploy
Before sharing widely:
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Test the assistant’s responses
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Ensure tools and instructions work as intended
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Upload missing files or refine the directions as needed
Sharing Your Assistant
You must first define who has access to the assistant through Access Controls. Then you can copy the link and share it with those individuals or groups.
Option 1: Shareable Link
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Go to Developer Options > My Assistants
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Select the assistant
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Navigate to Assistant Settings
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Copy the Shareable Link and distribute it to approved users
Option 2: Add to Assistant Store
You may submit a SpiderAI Support Request to add your assistant to the SpiderAI Store, making it searchable for campus users.
Assistant Tips
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Use clear, detailed instructions. Specificity improves consistency.
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Enable only necessary tools to keep interactions efficient.
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Upload high-quality supporting documents for better accuracy.
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Update your assistant regularly as needs or content evolve.
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Gather user feedback to refine performance.
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Users who attempt to access a shared SpiderAI link before logging into SpiderAI at least once may encounter an error message with no explanation.
See Also
SpiderAI Full Documentation – [Insert link here]