c3-design

What problem does it solve?

This Skill guides users through a structured, iterative process for designing or updating system architecture using the C3 methodology. It ensures all changes are thoroughly scoped, documented, and planned, reducing miscommunication and rework.

Core Features & Use Cases

• Iterative Scoping Loop: Follows a "Hypothesize → Explore → Discover" cycle to validate and refine architectural changes across Context, Container, and Component layers.
• Mandatory ADR + Plan Creation: Ensures every design decision is captured in an Architecture Decision Record (ADR) with a corresponding, detailed implementation plan.
• Layer-Specific Exploration: Delegates to specialized sub-skills for deep dives into Context, Container, or Component level impacts.
• Automated Handoff: Executes post-ADR steps, such as creating implementation tasks and notifying the team, based on project settings.
• Comprehensive Prerequisite Checks: Verifies the existence and coherence of .c3/ documentation before starting design work.
• Use Case: A product manager requests a new feature. This skill helps the architect systematically analyze its impact across Context, Container, and Component layers, culminating in a detailed Architecture Decision Record (ADR) and an implementation plan.

Quick Start

Use the c3-design skill to design the new user authentication system.