get_economic_indicators

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It explicitly lists the return content (Federal Reserve data, PPI by category, GSCPI, EIA forecasts), making clear this is a read-only data retrieval operation with no side effects. It does not address rate limits or output format, but the disclosed scope is sufficient for this simple zero-parameter 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 description is concise, using three sentences that each add value: the first defines the purpose, the second details the data contents, and the third gives usage context. It is front-loaded with the core purpose and avoids fluff or repetition.

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 (zero parameters, no output schema), the description is fully complete. It explains what data the tool returns and the intended user base, which is all the context an agent needs to invoke it correctly. No missing return-value documentation is required since there is no output schema.

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 tool has zero parameters, so the baseline is 4 per the rubric. The description appropriately does not need to explain parameters since there are none, and the 100% schema coverage (empty schema) means no parameter info is missing.

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 with a specific verb ('Get') and resource ('key economic indicators affecting supply chain costs and conditions'). It enumerates the exact data types returned (Federal Reserve data, PPI, GSCPI, EIA forecasts), which distinguishes it from sibling tools that focus on narrower topics like energy or freight.

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 provides clear context for when to use the tool by naming the audience ('supply chain strategists, procurement leaders, economic analysts') and the scenario ('macro backdrop for supply chain planning'). However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternative tools, so it misses the top tier of guidance.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.