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How to ThinkIn the Age of AI
Principlev1PR-962

Select collaboration patterns by analyzing task dependencies

Select collaboration patterns by analyzing task dependencies first—pipeline for sequential dependencies, fan-out for independent tasks, consensus for reciprocal dependencies—rather than by preference or habit.

Why This Is a Principle

Derives from The behavior of a system arises from its structure… (structure determines behavior) and The mind operates as multiple semi-autonomous processes… (multiple agents). This is Thompson's and Malone/Crowston's core insight operationalized: given that different dependency types have different coordination costs, analyze dependencies before selecting patterns. It's prescriptive, general, and actionable.