hcm_update_aor
Submits an update to an Approval Order (AOR) in Oracle HCM for approval, using the AOR ID and request body.
Instructions
Update AOR (approval unless --write).
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| body | Yes | ||
| aorId | Yes |
Submits an update to an Approval Order (AOR) in Oracle HCM for approval, using the AOR ID and request body.
Update AOR (approval unless --write).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| body | Yes | ||
| aorId | Yes |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v0.4.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations only indicate readOnlyHint=false, so the description carries the burden of explaining that this is a mutating operation with possible approval gating. It adds the 'approval unless --write' caveat but does not explain the approval mechanism, side effects, or what response to expect, which is insufficient for a mutation tool.
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 text is very short, but that is under-specification rather than effective conciseness. The parenthetical is confusing and does not earn its place because it fails to convey meaningful, actionable information.
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?
There is no output schema, minimal annotations, an unconstrained body parameter, and a vague approval note. A one-line description is far from enough for an agent to understand what AOR means, what body should contain, and how the approval workflow affects the call.
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?
Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate for the undocumented aorId and body parameters. It does not mention either parameter, leaving especially the body object completely unexplained.
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 names a specific verb and resource ('Update AOR') and clearly distinguishes this from sibling tools like create/get/delete AOR. However, the parenthetical 'approval unless --write' is cryptic and never explains what AOR is or what the --write flag refers to, which slightly undermines clarity.
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?
There is no guidance about when to use this tool versus alternatives such as hcm_create_aor, hcm_get_aor, hcm_delete_aor, or the approval/denial workflow tools. The 'approval unless --write' hint is too vague to serve as actionable selection guidance.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.