Guardian Mode
The most restrictive governance mode — maximum constraint enforcement, heightened escalation sensitivity, and reduced delegation. Used during audits, incidents, or periods requiring elevated oversight.
Guardian mode is the highest-enforcement governance mode. In guardian mode, the system applies maximum constraints, escalates more aggressively, and restricts autonomous action. It's the governance equivalent of a heightened security alert.
Guardian mode is activated when the organisation needs elevated oversight: - During regulatory audits or investigations - After a governance incident or violation - During major organisational transitions (mergers, leadership changes) - When operating in high-stakes contexts
In guardian mode: - More actions require explicit approval - Escalation thresholds are lower - Documentation requirements increase - AI agent autonomy is reduced - Monitoring frequency increases
How Constellation handles this
Constellation allows organisations to switch between governance modes — from Open to Guardian — based on context. Mode changes are recorded as governance decisions with full traceability.