Systems should fail gradually, not suddenly. Like dimming lights instead of blackouts, AI should reduce features step by step. Each level maintains some usefulness while admitting current limits. Design clear automation levels. ChatGPT's model selector shows this perfectly. GPT-4o handles complex tasks with advanced reasoning. GPT-4o-mini offers faster responses for simpler needs. GPT-4.5 focuses on writing and exploring ideas. GPT-4.1-mini provides quick help for everyday tasks. Each model serves different needs and complexity levels.

Give users control over these levels. The dropdown menu lets users pick based on their task. Writing a research paper? Choose the advanced model. Checking grammar? The mini version works fine. Users decide the trade-off between capability and speed without the system forcing a choice.

The system can suggest changes without forcing them. When hitting usage limits or encountering errors, ChatGPT might suggest switching models. "For faster responses, try GPT-4o-mini" appears during high demand. Users can switch or wait for their preferred model. This flexibility respects user priorities.