Jim Rutt defines a 'protocol' as a structured set of rules and conventions designed to enable coherent interaction and communication between entities, whether these entities are digital systems, organizations, or individuals. According to Rutt, protocols serve as blueprints that dictate how information should be formatted, transmitted, received, and processed to ensure interoperability and efficiency. They are essential in establishing trust, reducing ambiguity, and fostering collaboration in complex environments. By providing a clear and consistent framework, protocols help to streamline processes and facilitate seamless integration across varied platforms, making them fundamental to the smooth operation of both technological and social systems.

See also: crypto, evolution, emergence, game theory