When Websites Start Talking: What MCP Could Mean for Drupal

Dan Frost, Managing Director of Adaptive, introduces the Model Context Protocol (MCP) as a new way for systems to interact by sharing context rather than relying on rigid, predefined data formats. Unlike traditional APIs that require strict agreements in advance, MCP enables more fluid, conversational exchanges between platforms. It is already being used by major players like Slack and Atlassian and signals a broader shift toward systems that can interpret intent and provide relevant responses without tightly coupled integrations.

Dan discusses how MCP could enable more adaptive digital experiences, such as federated services, lightweight integrations, and user-centric personalization without surveillance. These benefits come with serious considerations. MCP raises important questions about consistency, governance, security, and consent. If systems begin sharing understanding rather than just data, then organizations must ensure transparency, auditability, and privacy compliance at every layer.

While MCP is still evolving, Drupal is well-positioned to explore this direction. Its structured content model, strong permission framework, and open architecture make it a suitable candidate for context-aware communication. Frost argues that Drupal sites could serve as MCP providers or participants in federated ecosystems, especially for organizations already relying on Drupal as the backbone of their digital presence. He encourages digital leaders to prepare by improving their content architecture and governance, even if full MCP adoption is not imminent.