breaking-apart-systems

Decompose system descriptions into C4 architecture diagrams with gated approvals.

Updated Aug 23, 2026

Search Tags:#architecture #mermaid #decomposition #diagram #c4 #design-document

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/cyarie/cyarie-claude-plugin --skill breaking-apart-systems

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: breaking-apart-systems
Source: https://github.com/cyarie/cyarie-claude-plugin/tree/main/skills/breaking-apart-systems
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/cyarie/cyarie-claude-plugin --skill breaking-apart-systems

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Decompose vague or evolving system descriptions into a formal C4-based architecture, enabling System → Container → Component decomposition with explicit approval gates and design-doc integration.

Core Features & Use Cases

Guided Level-by-Level Decomposition (System → Container → Component) with gating approvals at each level.
Generates a companion diagram file named design-doc-name-c4-diagrams.md next to the source design document to host Mermaid diagrams.
Integrates outputs and decisions back into the design document's Plan section, ensuring traceability with milestones.

Quick Start

Invoke the C4 decomposition flow by running /c4-the-design on your design document.

Frequently Asked Questions about breaking-apart-systems

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I decompose a vague system description into a formal architecture?▼

To decompose a vague system description into a formal architecture, this Skill guides you through a C4-based decomposition flow, breaking down the system into Container and Component levels with gated approvals at each step.

How do I generate Mermaid C4 diagrams from a design document?▼

Generate Mermaid C4 diagrams from a design document by invoking the decomposition flow, which creates a companion file named design-doc-name-c4-diagrams.md to host all the generated architecture diagrams.

When do I need to use C4 architecture decomposition for my project?▼

You need C4 architecture decomposition when formalizing architecture after a design document review, when internal structure is unclear, or when planning milestones that require explicit container and component diagrams.

How do I integrate C4 architecture diagrams back into a design plan?▼

Integrate C4 architecture diagrams back into a design plan by linking the generated decomposition outcomes and decisions directly into the source design document's Plan section, ensuring traceability with project milestones.

Can I use this decomposition flow without an existing design document?▼

No, you cannot use this flow without a design document, because the process requires reading a source design document to generate the companion Mermaid diagram files and integrate the decomposition outcomes back into the Plan section.

What is the best way to formalize system architecture after a design review?▼

The best way to formalize system architecture after a design review is using a gated C4 decomposition flow that breaks the system down level-by-level and integrates the resulting Mermaid diagrams directly into your design plan.