How does retrieval-augmented generation work?

The headline capability is only one part of the system. The useful unit of analysis is the complete workflow: model, data, tools, permissions, interface, evaluation, and accountable human review.

In production, the surrounding system—data, interface, permissions, evaluation, cost, and human review—often matters as much as the underlying model.

Deployment records, failure recovery, measured adoption, and changes to institutional policy are stronger signals than a single benchmark or launch claim.