A method for controlling a pipeline-based processor. The method includes determining a change in a workload. The method also includes activating or shutting down, by at least one controller circuit, one or more of the plurality of enhanced pipeline stages based on at least one corresponding enhanced stage priority level of the one or more of the plurality of enhanced pipeline stages and requirements for performance of the workload. The method additionally includes activating or shutting down, by the at least one controller circuit, one or more of the plurality of enhanced modules of the particular pipeline stage based on at least one corresponding priority level of the one or more of the plurality of enhanced modules of the particular pipeline stage and the requirements for the performance of the workload.