authoring

Automate Spec Tree artifact authoring from intake to validated creation.

1|Updated Jan 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/outcomeeng/claude --skill authoring
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: authoring
Source: https://github.com/outcomeeng/claude/tree/main/plugins/spec-tree/skills/authoring
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/outcomeeng/claude --skill authoring

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

The Skill ensures consistent and correct authoring of Spec Tree artifacts by providing a structured workflow that guides users from intake to artifact creation, enforcing templates, placement, and quality rules so artifacts are immediately usable by agents.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Conduct intake to determine artifact type (product spec, ADR/PDR, enabler, or outcome)
  • Load and apply placement and context rules to maintain tree integrity
  • Draft artifacts using templates from the understanding skill and enforce atemporal voice and test-link rules
  • Validate drafts against a strict checklist before creation
  • Create artifacts in the correct spx paths and provide guidance for next steps

Quick Start

Check for the SPEC_TREE_FOUNDATION marker and invoke the understanding skill if missing, then draft artifacts using the templates from the understanding skill.

Frequently Asked Questions about authoring

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

FAQPage Schema
What is a Spec Tree and when do I need structured authoring for it?

A Spec Tree is a structured hierarchy of product specs, ADRs, PDRs, and outcome nodes. You need structured authoring to ensure consistent placement, template usage, and compliance so artifacts remain immediately usable by agents.

How do I draft an architecture decision record or product spec within a governance workflow?

To draft an architecture decision record or product spec, the workflow guides you from intake through artifact creation, loading templates from the understanding skill and enforcing atemporal voice and test-link rules before validating the draft.

Do I need specific templates or markers before starting artifact authoring?

Yes, artifact authoring requires templates from the understanding skill and the SPEC_TREE_FOUNDATION marker. If the marker is missing, you must invoke the understanding skill to establish the foundation before drafting.

How does the authoring workflow validate drafts before creating artifacts?

The authoring workflow validates drafts against a strict checklist that enforces atemporal voice and test-link rules, ensuring compliance and tree integrity before artifacts are created in the correct spx paths.

What is the best way to maintain tree integrity when adding enabler and outcome nodes?

The best way to maintain tree integrity is through automated placement and context rules applied during intake, which ensure enabler nodes and outcome nodes are correctly structured within the parent spec-tree hierarchy.

Are there limitations on what artifact types can be authored using this workflow?

The workflow supports product specs, ADRs, PDRs, enabler nodes, and outcome nodes. Artifacts outside these types or drafts failing the strict compliance checklist cannot be created through this automated process.