Use the lightest layer that works.
Describe the job. Show the evidence. The ladder stops at the first layer capable of carrying it.
SpreadsheetWorkflowCodeAgent
Put a real task on the ladder.
Escalation is earned by evidence: more systems, non-standard logic, contextual judgment, or operational risk.
Lightest sufficient layer
Spreadsheet
Why it stops here
Step-down test
First move
Heavier is not smarter.
A spreadsheet holds structured work. A workflow moves it. Code handles logic that standard tools cannot. An agent earns its place only when the task truly needs contextual judgment.
Decision record
Evaluate a task to create the first decision record.