specops

Spec-driven development defines the desired codebase state through specifications, and a plan protocol structures the implementation tracking. This ensures code implementation closely aligns with initial specifications and manages development workflows efficiently.

To start spec-driven development, create a specification using Markdown files with YAML frontmatter in the 'specs/' directory, review and accept it, then generate a corresponding implementation plan in the 'plans/' directory to guide coding.

Yes, spec-driven development with this plan protocol requires a codebase explicitly organized with 'specs/', 'plans/', and 'references/' directories to properly store specification files, implementation plans, and protocol guidelines.

Spec validation works by implementing specific protocols for spec review and plan creation, verifying that the Markdown specifications and their YAML frontmatter accurately define the desired state before code implementation begins.

The best way to manage spec-first workflows is adopting a structured plan protocol that tracks specification implementation from creation through review, ensuring team development decisions closely align with accepted specifications.

Separating specifications and plans into distinct 'specs/' and 'plans/' directories enforces a clear distinction between defining the desired codebase state and tracking the structured implementation steps required to achieve it.