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design-doc

Generate structured design documents covering problem statements, goals, solutions, alternatives, and risks.

Updated Mar 17, 2023
Search Tags:#project management#documentation#software architecture#design document#technical planning#risk assessment
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/IainMcl/dotfiles --skill design-doc-iainmcl
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: design-doc
Source: https://github.com/IainMcl/dotfiles/tree/main/claude/skills/design-doc
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/IainMcl/dotfiles --skill design-doc-iainmcl

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill addresses the challenge of creating comprehensive and structured design documents for technical projects, ensuring clarity, alignment, and thorough consideration of all critical aspects before implementation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured Document Generation: Produces design documents with predefined sections (problem statement, goals, solution, alternatives, risks, etc.).
  • Audience Adaptation: Tailors technical explanations for mixed audiences, avoiding jargon where possible.
  • Use Case: A software engineering team needs to propose a new microservice architecture. This Skill can generate a design document outlining the problem, the proposed architecture, alternatives considered, and potential risks, facilitating review and approval by both technical and product stakeholders.

Quick Start

Use the design-doc skill to create a design document for a new user authentication system.

Frequently Asked Questions about design-doc

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

FAQPage Schema
What is a design document and when do I need one for software architecture planning?▼

A design document structures technical plans for significant features, covering problem statements, goals, solutions, risks, and rollback strategies. You need one to ensure shared understanding and secure sign-off from technical and product stakeholders before implementation.

How do I write a technical design document that covers risk assessment and rollout plans?▼

To write a technical design document, structure your plan with predefined sections including TL;DR, proposed solutions, alternatives, testing, rollout, rollback, metrics, monitoring, and SLAs. This ensures thorough risk assessment and clear technical planning for stakeholders.

Can I use this to generate project management documentation for mixed technical and product audiences?▼

Yes, you can generate project management documentation tailored for mixed audiences. The process adapts technical explanations by avoiding jargon where possible, ensuring both product stakeholders and engineering teams can review the proposed software architecture.

What's the best way to structure a design document for a new microservice architecture?▼

The best way to structure a design document for a new microservice architecture is to follow a defined template: TL;DR, overview, goals, proposed solutions, alternatives, testing, rollout, rollback, metrics, monitoring, SLAs, open questions, and references.

Does a technical design document need to include open questions and alternative solutions?▼

Yes, a technical design document needs to include open questions and alternative solutions. Documenting alternatives considered and unresolved questions facilitates thorough technical planning and helps stakeholders assess risks before sign-off.

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