Model Design

Design Kotlin server data models using facts and timestamps.

Updated Jan 4, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/lightningkite/lightning-kite-skills --skill model-design
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Model Design
Source: https://github.com/lightningkite/lightning-kite-skills/tree/main/model-design
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/lightningkite/lightning-kite-skills --skill model-design

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Designing data models for Lightning Server / Kotlin applications can lead to inconsistent patterns and brittle schemas. This skill provides a cohesive approach to domain modeling, database schema design, and Lightning Kite conventions to promote clarity, correctness, and long-term maintainability.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Domain modeling patterns that express invariants with facts and timestamps instead of mutable state enums.
  • Architecture guidance on immutable events vs mutable entities, type aliases, value classes, and behavior-rich models.
  • Real-world usage: designing scalable models for server apps in line with Lightning Kite conventions, including examples and best practices.

Quick Start

Map your domain concepts to facts with timestamps and implement a small model using the principles described.

Frequently Asked Questions about Model Design

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I design data models for Kotlin server applications using event-sourcing?

Design data models for Kotlin server applications by mapping domain concepts to immutable facts with timestamps to derive state, applying type aliases and value classes to express domain concepts clearly and robustly.

What is the difference between immutable events and mutable entities in domain modeling?

In domain modeling, immutable events represent facts that have occurred and cannot be changed, whereas mutable entities represent current state. Deriving state from immutable events enforces invariants and promotes long-term maintainability over mutable state enums.

Does this approach to data model design work with Lightning Server conventions?

Yes, this approach provides a cohesive method for domain modeling, database schema design, and Lightning Kite conventions to ensure scalable models for server apps align with Lightning Server architecture.

How do I express domain invariants with facts and timestamps instead of mutable state enums?

Express domain invariants with facts and timestamps by recording immutable events and deriving the current state sequentially. This replaces mutable state enums with behavior-rich models that accurately reflect domain concepts over time.

When should I use value classes and type aliases in Kotlin data models?

Use value classes and type aliases in Kotlin data models to express domain concepts clearly and robustly. This architecture guidance prevents inconsistent patterns and brittle schemas by enforcing strict type safety across typical backend scenarios.

What is the best way to prevent brittle schemas in Kotlin backend applications?

The best way to prevent brittle schemas in Kotlin backend applications is to apply cohesive domain modeling patterns, enforcing immutable events versus mutable entities and using value classes to promote correctness and long-term maintainability.