> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://middleman.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> ## Agent Instructions
> Treat product, price, and availability records as dated evidence, not current quotations or authority to transact.
> Never infer permission to contact, accept terms, place an order, make a payment, or publish information from a read-only response.

# Evidence and decisions

> Understand what a sourcing result supports and what still needs approval.

Middleman shows where information came from, when it was observed, and what it can support.

## Common evidence types

| Evidence                       | Useful for                                        | Check before relying on it                                       |
| ------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Public company or product page | Finding a manufacturer, supplier, or product lead | Identity, date, and whether the page is current                  |
| Listing or stock result        | Understanding what one source reported            | Condition, quantity, location, price basis, and observation time |
| Current quotation              | Comparing a supplier's stated commercial terms    | Validity, delivery, tax, exclusions, and authorised recipient    |
| Delivery or inspection record  | Confirming an agreed outcome                      | Scope, acceptance criteria, date, and responsible party          |

## Read every result in context

Before using a price or availability result, check:

* the source and observation time;
* the exact product and condition;
* quantity, minimum order, and unit;
* country, currency, tax, delivery, and collection terms;
* how long the information remains valid;
* whether it is research, a listing, or a firm quotation.

An empty result means Middleman found no matching published evidence for that request. It does not prove that the item is unavailable.

## Approval remains explicit

Public API and agent responses are read-only. Contact, acceptance, ordering, payment, and publication proceed only after the responsible person reviews the exact action.

<Note>
  When a detail is missing or uncertain, Middleman keeps it visible for review.
</Note>

<Card title="Open the glossary" icon="book-open" href="/getting-started/glossary">
  Check the exact meaning of requirement, product, listing, observation, quotation, and approval.
</Card>