openspec-explore

To explore a codebase and clarify requirements, you can use an AI thinking partner to investigate existing architecture and surface integration risks without writing implementation code. This approach helps visualize tradeoffs and compare design options before committing.

Comparing design options and visualizing tradeoffs is best handled by using an exploration mode that acts as a thinking partner. This allows you to brainstorm different approaches, investigate the codebase, and clarify requirements to surface potential risks before implementation.

Yes, you need the OpenSpec CLI installed to investigate codebase architecture effectively within this framework. The CLI provides the necessary context awareness for the AI to analyze existing code, explore ideas, and compare design options accurately.

Yes, you can use an AI thinking partner to brainstorm features without generating code. The exploration mode specifically facilitates deep thinking and requirements clarification, allowing you to discuss potential design choices and visualize impacts while deliberately excluding solution implementation.

To surface risks and integration points when planning a new feature, you should explore the relevant parts of the codebase using an AI investigation tool. This helps clarify requirements, visualize potential impacts, and compare design approaches before you start coding.

You should not use an exploration mode for codebase investigation when you are ready to directly implement solutions. This approach focuses on requirements clarification, design exploration, and risk surfacing, deliberately excluding the actual code generation and implementation phase.