dependency-evaluator

Evaluate adoption and upgrade risks for npm, gem, and crate packages.

3|Updated Nov 19, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/meaganewaller/.dotfiles --skill dependency-evaluator-meaganewaller
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dependency-evaluator
Source: https://github.com/meaganewaller/.dotfiles/tree/main/home/.claude/skills/common/dependency-evaluator
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/meaganewaller/.dotfiles --skill dependency-evaluator-meaganewaller

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This skill helps you make informed decisions about adding or upgrading third-party libraries by evaluating their maintenance, security, and potential risks.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Risk Assessment: Analyzes package metadata, repository health, maintainer responsiveness, security vulnerabilities, and upgrade stability.
  • Decision Support: Provides a structured framework to compare build vs. buy options and identify critical red flags.
  • Use Case: Before integrating a new JavaScript library into your project, use this skill to assess its CVE history, commit frequency, and bus factor to ensure it's a safe and sustainable choice.

Quick Start

Use the dependency-evaluator skill to assess the risks of adding the 'react-table' library.

Frequently Asked Questions about dependency-evaluator

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I evaluate the security risks of adding a third-party library?

To evaluate third-party library security risks, analyze package metadata, repository health, maintainer responsiveness, and CVE history. This assessment checks for known vulnerabilities and maintenance red flags before integration.

What factors should I check before upgrading an npm package?

Before upgrading an npm package, check its maintenance status, security vulnerabilities, commit frequency, and bus factor. Evaluating repository activity and CVE databases ensures the upgrade is stable and safe.

How do I assess the maintenance status of a gem or crate dependency?

Assess the maintenance status of gem or crate dependencies by researching package metadata and repository activity. Checking maintainer responsiveness and commit frequency identifies whether the package is actively sustained.

Does this dependency risk assessment support build vs buy decisions?

Yes, dependency risk assessment supports build vs buy decisions by providing a structured framework. It evaluates licensing compatibility, exit strategies, and critical red flags to guide your software adoption choices.

When should I perform a third-party software dependency evaluation?

You should perform a third-party software dependency evaluation before integrating or upgrading any external packages. This proactive risk assessment prevents adopting abandoned or vulnerable libraries into your project.

What is a bus factor and why does it matter for dependency evaluation?

A bus factor in dependency evaluation measures how many maintainers a project needs to survive losing key contributors. A low bus factor indicates high risk of abandonment, threatening long-term maintenance.