Definition
Hierarchical agents are a multi-level agent structure where a supervisor agent delegates tasks to sub-agents. The supervisor manages the overall workflow, assigns specific tasks to specialized sub-agents, monitors their progress, and handles any issues that arise.
Example
A project manager agent assigns research tasks to a research sub-agent, writing tasks to a writer sub-agent, and design tasks to a designer sub-agent, while monitoring progress and reassigning work if any sub-agent falls behind.
Why it matters
Hierarchical structures mirror how effective human teams work. The manager doesn't do every task; they delegate to specialists and coordinate the result.