Why this recommendation fits
Research workflows often branch by source quality and uncertainty. A graph helps keep retrieval, critique, synthesis, and citation validation separate instead of burying the process inside a single prompt.
AutoGen remains interesting for experimental multi-agent research loops, but it needs careful production review for observability and deterministic stopping conditions.
Decision checklist
- ✓Source retrieval
- ✓Citation checks
- ✓Critique pass
- ✓Multi-step synthesis
- ✓Traceability
Frequently asked questions
- What framework fits a research assistant?
- Use LangGraph when the assistant needs source routing, citation checks, critique loops, and state. Use AutoGen or CrewAI for faster experimental multi-agent prototypes.
- Do research agents need graph orchestration?
- Graph orchestration helps when source quality, search depth, or critique decisions change the next step. Simple summarizers may not need it.
- How should citations be handled?
- Citations should be generated from retrieved source metadata and verified before final synthesis. Do not let the model invent source titles or URLs.