Overview
Internet and computer automation exist on a spectrum. At one end are direct HTTP or API requests. In the middle is browser automation. At the far end is full computer control through mouse, keyboard, and screenshots. Each layer trades setup effort, generality, speed, cost, and reliability differently.
The most efficient design uses the lowest layer that can perform the task reliably. A useful operating pattern is to prototype with a more general layer, learn how the task works, and then move stable, high-volume execution to a cheaper and faster layer when possible.