The automation ladder

The automation ladderThe automation ladder: six rungs from a one-off prompt to an agent behind an approval gate, with verification required at every step1. One-off promptAd hoc chat, pasted input2. Saved promptIn the team library, tested3. Shared projectContext pack loaded4. SkillProcedure plus checks5. Scheduled taskRuns the skill with connectors6. Agent, gatedWrite access, human approvalClimb a rung only when the one below is stable and verified

The automation ladder for PM work. Each rung adds reach and removes a moment of human attention, so each needs a tested check before you climb. Most recurring PM work belongs on rungs 2 to 5.