Use AI where it creates leverage
Use models for fuzzy work and conventional software for everything that should be deterministic.
Keep state, rules, and execution outside the model.
The best AI workflow is usually narrow. Models are useful for fuzzy transformation and judgment. Conventional software should handle state, rules, validation, and execution.
Choose bounded work
Use models for tasks such as extraction, classification, summarization, drafting, and research synthesis where inputs and outputs can be inspected.
Keep state outside the model
Store source data, workflow state, decisions, retries, and audit history in normal application infrastructure.
Validate before action
Use schemas, confidence thresholds, deterministic checks, and human review when a bad result can create downstream cost.
Measure leverage
Track whether the workflow saves time, improves throughput, lowers cost, or improves quality. If it does not, remove it.