MCP is a standardized way for AI apps to connect to external tools and data. Conceptually, it lets Claude interact with systems outside the conversation.
- MCP server: the connector that exposes capabilities.
- Tools: actions Claude can call.
- Resources: data Claude can inspect.
- Permissions: what Claude is allowed to access or change.
- Risk: every tool expands what a wrong instruction could affect.
MCP fit check
Evaluate whether this workflow needs MCP. Identify the external system, required tools, required permissions, failure modes, and human approval checkpoints.
Workflow:
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