How to Use
- Pick one 'hero' purchase flow (e.g., replenishment, high-consideration, subscription)
- Fill each stage with the minimum inputs/data an agent needs to choose you
- Circle the stages where you are currently not machine-readable (data), not accessible (APIs), or not trusted (reputation)
- Turn the circled items into a 30/60/90-day build list
The Five Stages
1. Intent
What need triggers the purchase? What constraints matter? (budget, timing, preferences)
Notes / answers:
Signals the agent can infer
Signals you should collect explicitly
2. Research
Where does the agent look? What structured data should it find about you?
Notes / answers:
Databases/aggregators to be present in
Schema/feed fields required
3. Evaluation
How does the agent compare options? What differentiators matter for your best-fit segment?
Notes / answers:
Proof and reputation signals needed
Key tradeoffs to win
4. Transaction
How does an agent buy from you? What makes checkout safe and low-friction?
Notes / answers:
APIs/auth standards supported
Guardrails / limits / approvals
5. Fulfillment
What happens after purchase? How do you reduce returns and increase satisfaction?
Notes / answers:
Delivery and tracking signals
Return process and support
Want Feedback on Your Canvas?
This canvas is from Instant Checkout: How AI Agents Are Quietly Replacing the Way We Buy