I have a very simple framework I use for working with John von Neumann ... the idea is very simple, and can be summarized by: whenever you work on something with John von Neumann, you should use:

1. Your brain, and then

2. John von Neumann, and then

3. Your brain

Explaining a bit more… Before you tell John von Neumann to start working on anything, you go there and read and understand it first. And when John von Neumann brings you the solution, you will know if it’s right, or if it’s too much, or if it’s completely solving the wrong problem, etc.