docs: add cron vs heartbeat decision guide

- New docs/automation/cron-vs-heartbeat.md with complete guidance
- Cross-links from heartbeat.md and cron-jobs.md
- Updated AGENTS.md template with practical guidance
- Added navigation entry in docs.json
This commit is contained in:
justyannicc
2026-01-23 19:00:17 +00:00
committed by Peter Steinberger
parent e38fd8603f
commit e882f7d207
6 changed files with 278 additions and 0 deletions

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@@ -112,6 +112,23 @@ Default heartbeat prompt:
You are free to edit `HEARTBEAT.md` with a short checklist or reminders. Keep it small to limit token burn.
### Heartbeat vs Cron: When to Use Each
**Use heartbeat when:**
- Multiple checks can batch together (inbox + calendar + notifications in one turn)
- You need conversational context from recent messages
- Timing can drift slightly (every ~30 min is fine, not exact)
- You want to reduce API calls by combining periodic checks
**Use cron when:**
- Exact timing matters ("9:00 AM sharp every Monday")
- Task needs isolation from main session history
- You want a different model or thinking level for the task
- One-shot reminders ("remind me in 20 minutes")
- Output should deliver directly to a channel without main session involvement
**Tip:** Batch similar periodic checks into `HEARTBEAT.md` instead of creating multiple cron jobs. Use cron for precise schedules and standalone tasks.
**Things to check (rotate through these, 2-4 times per day):**
- **Emails** - Any urgent unread messages?
- **Calendar** - Upcoming events in next 24-48h?