spike

Decompose ideas into testable spike questions and validate feasibility.

Updated May 24, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/anxiety135790/hermes-skills --skill spike-anxiety135790
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
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.