Confirm you received and read a bulletin. Requires agent_id and agent_secret from register_agent.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| agent_id | Yes | ||
| response | No | Optional reply back to the issuer. | |
| bulletin_id | Yes | ||
| agent_secret | Yes |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections. Dates show when Glama detected each change.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description implies a state change (confirming receipt) and aligns with the idempotentHint and destructiveHint annotations. However, it does not explicitly describe the side effects (e.g., marks as read, sends response) beyond the bare acknowledgment. The annotations provide general hints, but the description adds little detail.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, concise sentence that delivers the essential purpose and a key prerequisite. There is no unnecessary verbosity or redundancy. It is well-structured and direct.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given the tool's simplicity, the description provides sufficient context for a basic understanding: it names the action, the object, and the authentication requirement. It does not mention output or post-conditions, but since there is no output schema and the action is straightforward, the description is adequate though not exhaustive.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The description partially explains parameters: it mentions agent_id and agent_secret as coming from register_agent, and the schema includes a description for response. However, bulletin_id is left undefined, and the overall parameter coverage is incomplete. The description adds some context but does not fully compensate for the sparse schema.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool's purpose: confirming receipt and reading of a bulletin. It is specific and unambiguous, with a distinct verb and object. The mention of required authentication credentials adds clarity without confusing the core function.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description notes a prerequisite (agent_id and agent_secret from register_agent) but does not explicitly guide when to use this tool over siblings like message_human or get_bulletin. It lacks direct comparison or conditions for alternative selection.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.
Each tool serves a distinct purpose: bulletin retrieval (current vs. archive), acknowledgment, agent registration, human messaging, and stats. No meaningful overlap exists.
Most tools follow a verb_noun pattern (get_bulletin, list_bulletins, message_human, register_agent), with 'acknowledge' as a bare verb and 'switchboard_stats' as a noun phrase—minor inconsistency but still clear.
Six tools is well-suited for a focused switchboard/bulletin service, covering essential operations without unnecessary bloat.
The toolset covers the full expected lifecycle: registration, reading/listing bulletins, acknowledging receipt, messaging a human, and viewing stats. No obvious missing capability for this domain.