architect-first

Enforce architectural validation and documentation before implementation begins.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pglemos/GOLFFOX --skill architect-first-pglemos
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: architect-first
Source: https://github.com/pglemos/GOLFFOX/tree/main/.claude/skills/architect-first
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pglemos/GOLFFOX --skill architect-first-pglemos

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill guides teams to enforce the "Architect-First" development philosophy, ensuring architecture and documentation are completed before implementation begins.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Architectural Decision Enforcement: Guides validation of complete system design before coding.
  • Documentation Standards: Promotes comprehensive architecture diagrams, data flows, and component descriptions.
  • Use Case: When starting a new project or refactoring, use this Skill to ensure all architectural aspects are validated, documented, and stakeholder-approved to prevent structural issues.

Quick Start

Initiate architectural validation by reviewing the architecture document with this Skill before proceeding to implementation.

Frequently Asked Questions about architect-first

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I enforce architectural validation before starting software implementation?

To enforce architectural validation, you must complete comprehensive system design documentation and run validation scripts before coding begins. This approach ensures all architectural aspects are formally validated and stakeholder-approved, preventing structural issues during complex system planning or refactoring.

What is the architect-first development philosophy for complex systems?

The architect-first philosophy mandates that architecture and documentation are fully completed before implementation begins. It facilitates disciplined development by enforcing validation scripts, detailed checklists, and formal documentation templates to maintain high standards in software projects.

How do I validate architecture documentation for stakeholder approval?

Validating architecture documentation involves using detailed checklists and validation scripts to review system designs, data flows, and component descriptions. This process ensures the architecture meets documentation standards and is ready for formal stakeholder approval before development proceeds.

Do I need validation scripts to maintain architecture documentation standards?

Yes, validation scripts are required for effective deployment of this architecture documentation approach. They automate the enforcement of design standards, ensuring comprehensive diagrams and component descriptions are properly validated before implementation or refactoring begins.

When should I not use a strict architect-first approach for refactoring?

A strict architect-first approach may be unsuitable for rapid prototyping or minor patches where immediate code changes are required. It is designed for planning complex systems or major refactoring where comprehensive documentation and stakeholder validation are necessary.

What is the best way to plan architecture for a complex software system refactoring?

The best way to plan complex refactoring is to initiate architectural validation by reviewing the architecture document against detailed checklists. This ensures comprehensive diagrams, data flows, and component descriptions are fully validated before implementation proceeds.