THE STARTING POINT
Compare approaches using the input, decision and maintenance needs of one task.
Separate fixed decisions from interpretation.
If a task follows explicit conditions, a rules-based approach may be straightforward to explain and test. If it involves varied language or ambiguous inputs, an assisted approach may be worth exploring. Describe the uncertainty in the task rather than selecting a method because it is fashionable.
Compare the operating effort.
Consider who will update the rules or review the assisted outputs when requirements change. Include exception handling, access and support in the comparison. A small demonstration does not reveal all the work needed to maintain the approach once other people depend on it.
Pilot a narrow boundary.
Choose one representative part of the workflow and agree the review criteria. Compare the result with the current method. It may be useful to combine explicit rules with assistance, but each component should have a clear purpose and an owner who understands its limitations.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Your discovery checklist
- Separate explicit conditions from uncertain interpretation.
- Compare maintenance and exception-handling needs.
- Choose one narrow task for a reviewable pilot.