c4-diagram

Generate C4 diagrams as draw.io XML from system descriptions.

Updated Aug 23, 2026

Search Tags:#architecture #container #draw.io #diagram #c4 #architecture-diagrams #system-context

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/cjennings/rulesets --skill c4-diagram-cjennings

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: c4-diagram
Source: https://github.com/cjennings/rulesets/tree/main/c4-diagram
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/cjennings/rulesets --skill c4-diagram-cjennings

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Transform plain-language descriptions of a software system into structured C4 architecture diagrams, enabling rapid planning, communication, and alignment with stakeholders.

Core Features & Use Cases

Generate System Context and Container diagrams from a narrative description using Simon Brown's C4 methodology.
Support phased modeling (Understand the system, Build the model, Generate diagrams) and automated layout audits to ensure readability.
Produce diagrams in draw.io XML format for easy integration with documentation workflows and architecture reviews.

Quick Start

Describe your software system in plain language and specify the diagram level you want (e.g., system context or container) to generate the initial diagrams.

Frequently Asked Questions about c4-diagram

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I generate C4 architecture diagrams from a plain text description?▼

To generate C4 architecture diagrams from a text description, provide a conversational narrative of your software system and an optional diagram level. The skill processes this input through phased modeling to output structured C4 diagrams.

Can I create draw.io diagrams using the C4 model methodology?▼

Yes, you can create draw.io diagrams using the C4 model because the skill outputs draw.io compatible XML. This allows direct integration of generated System Context and Container diagrams into existing documentation workflows.

What is the best way to automate system context and container diagram creation?▼

The best way to automate system context and container diagram creation is providing a plain-language system description to an automated modeling tool. This approach uses Simon Brown's C4 methodology to structure the diagrams and performs layout audits for readability.

Does generating C4 diagrams with this approach require manual layout adjustments?▼

Generating C4 diagrams with this approach does not require manual layout adjustments because the process includes an automated layout audit. This audit checks the generated draw.io XML to ensure the architecture diagrams remain readable for stakeholders.

How do I structure a software system description for C4 diagram generation?▼

To structure a software system description for C4 diagram generation, write a plain-language narrative explaining the system and specify the desired diagram level, such as system context or container. The skill guides you through understanding the system and building the model from this input.

When do I need a System Context diagram versus a Container diagram in C4?▼

You need a System Context diagram to show high-level interactions with external users and systems, while a Container diagram details the internal deployable components. You can specify either level as input to generate the appropriate draw.io XML output.