spike

Decompose ideas into testable spike questions and validate feasibility.

Updated May 24, 2026

Search Tags:#software design #validation #proof of concept #feasibility #prototype #experimentation #spike

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/anxiety135790/hermes-skills --skill spike-anxiety135790

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: spike
Source: https://github.com/anxiety135790/hermes-skills/tree/main/software-development/spike
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/anxiety135790/hermes-skills --skill spike-anxiety135790

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you quickly test whether an idea is feasible before investing in a real build, reducing wasted time on concepts that may not work.

Core Features & Use Cases

Feasibility Testing: Break an idea into focused spike questions that can be validated with observable results.
Approach Comparison: Compare two or more implementation paths when there is uncertainty about the best method.
Throwaway Prototyping: Build small, disposable experiments to answer questions about performance, compatibility, or integration risk.
Use Case: You want to know whether a websocket streaming approach can deliver tokens fast enough before committing to product development.

Quick Start

Ask the skill to decompose your idea into 2 to 5 feasibility spikes and propose the best order to test them.

Frequently Asked Questions about spike

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I validate an idea's feasibility before committing to development?▼

To validate feasibility before development, decompose your idea into 2 to 5 focused spike questions, build disposable prototypes, and conduct lightweight research to yield evidence-based verdicts on technical risks.

What is a software spike and when should I use throwaway prototyping?▼

A software spike is a targeted experiment to reduce technical uncertainty. Use throwaway prototyping when you need to compare approaches or test integration risks before investing in full production development.

How do I compare multiple implementation paths for a feature?▼

Compare implementation paths by isolating variables into distinct spike questions, testing each with small disposable experiments, and evaluating observable results to determine the best technical approach.

Can I use spike testing to check performance and compatibility risks?▼

Yes, you can use spike testing to check performance and compatibility by building small, temporary implementations that measure specific constraints, such as whether a websocket approach streams tokens fast enough.

What are the limitations of using disposable prototypes for software design?▼

The main limitation of disposable prototypes is that they are built for experimentation rather than production, meaning they validate specific feasibility questions but do not yield scalable, deployable software architecture.