Guardrails

• Any feature handling user-generated content or sensitive data.
• Enterprise deals that require explicit safety controls.
• High-risk tools (payments, PII) exposed to models.

Guardrails reduce legal and brand risk but can increase refusals and latency. PMs decide which risks matter most, where to enforce (pre/post), and how to explain refusals in UX. Strong guardrails enable faster approvals and broader rollout.

Layer controls: input filters, prompt rules, model safety settings, output classifiers, and tool allowlists. Log everything. In 2026, tie guardrails to intents and user tiers (stricter for unknown users) and run red-team checks continuously.

Adding layered guardrails to a sales copilot cut unsafe outputs to <0.2% while keeping conversion impact neutral. Refusal messaging clarified scope, keeping CSAT steady at 4.6/5.

• Using one-size-fits-all refusals that block legitimate requests.
• Relying only on provider safety toggles without your own checks.
• Not auditing guardrail effectiveness over time.