We are shifting our operational model to rely heavily on automated AI agents, but our current operations manager, who excels at following manual SOPs, is struggling to oversee these dynamic software systems. How do we use the Kolbe A™ Index to determine if this person has the natural conative drive to manage automated workflows or if we need to restructure this seat?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Managing manual, step-by-step processes requires a completely different cognitive and conative drive than orchestrating automated, dynamic AI workflows. To understand why your operations manager is struggling, look beyond their technical knowledge and administer the Kolbe A™ Index. This assessment measures an individual's instinctive mode of taking action. A person with a high Fact Finder or Follow Through index excels at following highly structured, predictable processes and maintaining order. However, designing and iterating on dynamic AI agents requires a high Quick Start index, which thrives on experimentation, rapid prototyping, and dealing with ambiguity. If your current manager is a high Follow Through and low Quick Start, they will naturally feel drained and overwhelmed by the constant pivots and unpredictable outputs of AI systems. Use these insights to evaluate their GWC™ for the newly redesigned seat on your Accountability Chart. If there is a fundamental conative mismatch, you must adjust their seat or bring in a new operator with a conative profile suited for rapid testing and system orchestration. This ensures your operations are led by someone whose natural strengths align with your technology strategy.