Everything on Operational Design

Workflow steps should be categorized into four distinct buckets: delete, plain code, agentic, and human-in-the-loop. This classification ensures that automation is applied where it adds value while retaining human oversight for high-risk decisions.

Impact: Optimizes resource allocation by eliminating unnecessary steps and ensuring appropriate levels of automation and control.

— from Forward Deployed Engineering: AI Transformation Playbook · The Startup Ideas Podcast· Oct 01, 2026