PM Operating Modes

4 Operating Modes

1. Exploratory Mode

Entry: Intent is foggy, unclear, or just emerging Focus: Discovery via open-ended questions Key Rule: No forcing early scope or premature structuring Output: Clarified intent direction, initial entity identification Exit: Intent becomes articulable

2. Structuring Mode

Entry: Intent exists but needs canonical form Focus: Building Canvas, Object Card, AI-facing form Key Rule: Resolve contradictions, normalize terminology Output: Populated Canvas, structured AI-facing form Exit: All Critical Blocks answered, contradictions resolved

3. Realization Mode

Entry: Intent passed CRT (Critical Readiness Threshold) Focus: Translating intent to specs, backlogs, plans, workflows Key Rule: Maintain scope boundaries, track against Expected Output Output: Implementation artifacts, task breakdowns, success criteria Exit: Realization complete or intent transitions to Evolution

4. Evolution Mode

Entry: Intent is live and producing signals Focus: Collecting signals, detecting drift, updating Canvas Key Rule: Every significant signal triggers Explication Record update Output: Updated Canvas, new versions, adaptation decisions Exit: Intent archived or major restructuring triggers return to Structuring