> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://shepherd-1.gitbook.io/shepherd/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://shepherd-1.gitbook.io/shepherd/why-now.md).

# Why Now

Web3 has reached an inflection point. The urgency for solutions like Shepherd has never been greater:

* **Growing impact of exploits**

  The total value drained from exploits grows year over year, costing protocols billions and shaking user confidence.

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* **Faster shipping cycles**

  Protocols push updates at high speed, often without the timing or budget for comprehensive audits.

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* **Tooling gaps**

  Existing tools focus on static analysis and miss dynamic, composable, multi-contract threats.

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* **AI and Infrastructure maturity**

  Recent advancements in LLMs and agent frameworks, combined with increasingly sophisticated blockchain development frameworks and simulation tools, have unlocked the ability to rigorously and autonomously test smart contracts at scale.