Key Takeaways
1. The workshop is a 4-Phase "Super-Specialist hiring" process.
The Joule Agent Design Workshop is structured around the metaphor of "hiring an agent" to guide participants through the design process in four logical phases:
- Define the Focus Area (The job's context and user needs).
- Identify Tasks to Delegate(Deciding what the human keeps vs. what the agent takes over).
- Describe the Super-Specialist's Job(Defining the agent's role, knowledge, and tools).
- Instruct the Super-Specialists(Creating detailed, step-by-step logic, including human-in-the-loop steps).
- This linear flow ensures requirements are gathered systematically, from high-level context to detailed agent instructions.
2. Identify tasks to delegate is the core innovation block.
- The full-day agenda is the recommended format for detailed outcomes, with "Getting Started," "Bring it all Together," and "Next Steps" bookending the design phases.
- The "Identify Tasks to Delegate" section is the most crucial block, as it is where innovation and the main system requirements are established.
- You can also run the workshop in a flexible, shorter 3-hour format or by applying only selected methods, adapting the agenda to your project's goals.
3. Prioritize diversity and size in team composition.
- A successful workshop team requires a diverse mix of perspectives: Business Experts (end-users, process knowledge) to define the what and Technical Experts (feasibility, implementation) to define the how.
- Ensure each breakout group has a moderator familiar with the format and agent concepts. Crucially, limit each breakout team to a maximum of six participants to ensure active participation, focused discussion, and efficient time management.
4. Choose your breakout strategy: scenario vs. user group.
- You can divide participants in two ways:
- By automation scenario: Each team focuses on a (e.g., expense reports vs. flight rebooking). This is generally recommended for simplicity.
- By user group:Teams focus on thesame complex process but from different user perspectives (e.g., new hire vs. hiring manager for onboarding).
- Discuss the best division strategy with the customer, aiming for simpler, more focused automation scenarios per team whenever
4. The space must support collaboration (avoid hybrid).
- On-site setup requires a large, flexible room where participants can easily rearrange tables and chairs for breakout groups. Ensure they have whiteboards/vertical surfaces and a large screen for sharing.
The most critical rule for the environment is to avoid hybrid formats, as they often lead to unequal participation and require excessive moderator/technical support. Whether physical or virtual, the space must facilitate a focused, consistent, and collaborative experience.