openspec-explore

To explore ideas and clarify requirements before coding, you describe the problem to a thinking partner that reads context, asks clarifying questions, and visualizes options without committing changes.

Visual brainstorming for problem framing is a collaborative ideation method that uses question-led exploration to surface design considerations and compare options before implementation begins.

Yes, you can investigate codebase problems by reading files for context and comparing alternatives safely, as the exploration mode operates flexibly without writing or committing any code.

You do not need an OpenSpec artifact to start; the tool guides exploration naturally and only offers to create OpenSpec artifacts if you explicitly ask for them during the session.

The best way to frame problems is using a non-prescriptive thinking partner that investigates your codebase context, highlights requirements, and guides flexible exploration without enforcing a rigid process.

You should avoid coding assistants for early-stage ideation because they often jump to writing code, whereas a dedicated exploration mode ensures you clarify requirements and frame problems first without committing changes.