design-document

Define DESIGN.md standards with YAML frontmatter and a structured output template.

Updated Feb 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/AndreaCadonna/Certificate_Authority_Service --skill design-document
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: design-document
Source: https://github.com/AndreaCadonna/Certificate_Authority_Service/tree/main/workflow/skills/design-document
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/AndreaCadonna/Certificate_Authority_Service --skill design-document

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

DESIGN.md documents often lack consistent structure and quality, causing ambiguity and miscommunication across architecture teams.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Provides a formal DESIGN.md template with required frontmatter (name, description) and a clearly defined section layout.
  • Guides ADR creation (adr-document skill) and implementation planning within architecture workstreams.
  • Supports traceability from requirements to design decisions through a standardized documentation workflow.

Quick Start

Create a DESIGN.md following the Output Template and begin outlining your project’s architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions about design-document

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

FAQPage Schema
What is a DESIGN.md document and when do I need one for architecture planning?

A DESIGN.md document defines consistent architecture standards and structure to eliminate ambiguity. You need one during architect planning phases to guide design document creation and ensure traceability from requirements to design decisions.

How do I structure a DESIGN.md file for software architecture specifications?

Structure your DESIGN.md by adding YAML frontmatter with name and description fields, followed by a structured body that follows the defined Output Template to ensure consistent architecture design artifacts across your project.

Can I use this DESIGN.md template for projects of varying scale?

Yes, the DESIGN.md template is applied in architect planning phases to guide design document creation for projects of varying scale, ensuring standardized architecture documentation regardless of project size.

Does the DESIGN.md standard support linking to ADRs and requirements traceability?

Yes, the DESIGN.md standard supports traceability from requirements to design decisions and guides ADR creation within architecture workstreams, ensuring a standardized documentation workflow across teams.

What is the best way to maintain consistency in architecture documentation across teams?

The best way to maintain consistency in architecture documentation is to enforce a formal DESIGN.md template with required YAML frontmatter and a clearly defined section layout, eliminating ambiguity and miscommunication across architecture teams.