Last week covered the big model launches.
This week is about execution.
Every day, another tool claims it can be your AI agent platform. Some are useful. Most are not. This issue gives you a practical filter for what's worth your time.
🔧 Tool of the Week: Claude Cowork Plugins
A plugin layer that connects Claude to your existing tools and lets it execute multi-step workflows. Useful when the process is already clear. If the process is messy, automation just makes the mess run faster.
The play: Pick one repetitive workflow you run every week. Write the steps first. Then automate only that flow.
⚙️ The 5-Minute Agent Audit
Before adopting any new AI tool, score the task: Is the data structured? Are the rules explicit? Is error tolerance high? Is human judgment optional? Score 3-4 yes = automate now. Score 2 = semi-automate. Score 0-1 = keep manual.
📢 One thing to try this week
Run the Agent Audit on one task you do regularly. Reply and tell me what you discover. I read every response.
## Build vs. Buy: A Practical Decision Tree
Use general platforms (Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini) when:
- your task is broad (research, writing, analysis)
- you’re still validating the workflow
- speed matters more than perfect reliability
Buy a specialized tool when:
- it solves your exact use case out of the box
- integrations and auditability matter
- your team needs shared workflows
Build custom when:
- your workflow is core to your advantage
- your data/process is proprietary
- off-the-shelf tools top out around “good enough”
Rule of thumb: If you’re still experimenting, don’t build first.
## Quick Hits
- Enterprise agent adoption is moving from pilots to operations.
- Government AI programs are scaling beyond sandbox initiatives.
- Natural-language app builders are becoming a standard entry point for non-technical builders.
Until next Thursday,
— The Node Sequence Team