openspec-explore

Explore software design ideas and investigate codebases with ASCII diagrams.

1|Updated Feb 11, 2026

Search Tags:#problem solving #exploration #codebase investigation #thinking partner #requirements clarification #design options

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/vidos-id/usecase-demos --skill openspec-explore-vidos-id

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: openspec-explore
Source: https://github.com/vidos-id/usecase-demos/tree/main/.agents/skills/openspec-explore
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/vidos-id/usecase-demos --skill openspec-explore-vidos-id

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill acts as an AI thinking partner to help users explore ideas, investigate problems, and clarify requirements before or during code changes, without implementing them directly.

Core Features & Use Cases

Exploratory Thinking: Asks clarifying questions, challenges assumptions, and reframes problems.
Codebase Investigation: Maps architecture, finds integration points, and identifies patterns.
Option Comparison: Brainstorms approaches, sketches tradeoffs, and visualizes concepts.
Use Case: A developer is unsure about the best way to refactor a complex module. They activate this Skill to discuss the problem, explore different refactoring strategies with ASCII diagrams, and understand potential risks before writing any code.

Quick Start

Use the openspec-explore skill to think through the implications of adding a new feature.

Frequently Asked Questions about openspec-explore

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I clarify requirements and explore design options before refactoring a module?▼

To clarify requirements and explore design options, you can use a collaborative thinking partner to challenge assumptions, map architecture, and compare tradeoffs. This approach helps visualize concepts and identify risks before writing code.

What is the best way to investigate an existing codebase to find integration points?▼

The best way to investigate an existing codebase involves mapping the architecture and identifying patterns collaboratively. This process helps locate integration points and understand the overall structure without directly modifying the implementation.

How do I compare different software design approaches and visualize their tradeoffs?▼

To compare design approaches, you can brainstorm options and sketch tradeoffs collaboratively. Visualizing concepts through ASCII diagrams helps clarify the implications of each approach and supports better decision-making.

Can I use an AI thinking partner to reframe a software problem without generating code?▼

Yes, you can use an AI thinking partner to explore ideas and reframe problems without generating code. It focuses entirely on discovery, asking clarifying questions, and visualizing concepts rather than implementing the solution directly.

When do I need an exploratory thinking process for software development ideas?▼

You need an exploratory thinking process when you are unsure about the best approach or implications of adding a new feature. It helps you think through the problem, clarify requirements, and understand potential risks before making changes.