The problem
A solution category has been selected before the work, exceptions and authority model are sufficiently understood.
What it looks like
- The proposed agent has no bounded decision rights.
- Exceptions still depend on undocumented human rescue.
- Success is described as deployment rather than an operating outcome.
Why it happens
Capability is confused with permission, and demonstrations hide the state and recovery requirements of real work.
What not to do yet
Do not grant broad tool access or automate an unstable workflow.
Diagnostic path
- Is the work deterministic enough for rules?
- Where is interpretation genuinely necessary?
- Which actions require approval or escalation?
Solution pathway
Map the workflow, choose the smallest proportionate capability, define authority and recovery, then test representative cases.
