# Email Prefix Communication System

Updated: 2026-07-12

The Master emails `shonuff@germainebrown.com` with prefixes in the subject or first line:

| Prefix | Meaning | Behavior |
|--------|---------|----------|
| *(none)* | Direct command | Execute now, report back |
| `[bg]` or `[delegate]` | Background task | Subagent handles, async result |
| `[queue]` | Queued for later | Shelved until next check-in |
| `[lookup]` | Quick research | One-and-done, no follow-up |
| `[note]` | Just FYI | Acknowledge, save, no action |

## Parsing Logic

Check the first 20 characters of the subject line first. If no prefix match, check the first line of the email body. Default to "direct command" if no prefix matches.

## Examples

```
Subject: Re: your analysis of Exa          → immediate response
Subject: [bg] Check why app2 disk is high   → background, async
Subject: [queue] Set up VoIPSimplicity      → queued for later
Body starts with: [lookup] What's PACER pricing? → quick search
Body starts with: [note] Hotel is nice      → acknowledged, no action
```