spike

Create isolated prototypes to test software feasibility and compare technical approaches.

2|1|Updated Jul 14, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/heysuhas/hermes_cli --skill spike-heysuhas
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: spike
Source: https://github.com/heysuhas/hermes_cli/tree/main/skills/software-development/spike
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/heysuhas/hermes_cli --skill spike-heysuhas

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill solves the uncertainty of building new features by providing a structured, disposable framework to test feasibility and compare technical approaches before committing to production code.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Feasibility Validation: Quickly prototype high-risk technical ideas to see if they work before investing significant development time.
  • Approach Comparison: Run side-by-side experiments (e.g., testing two different libraries) to determine the best path forward.
  • Use Case: If you are unsure whether a specific library can handle real-time websocket streaming for your application, use this skill to build a standalone, throwaway prototype that proves or disproves the concept in minutes.

Quick Start

Use the spike skill to investigate the feasibility of integrating a new vector database into our current architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions about spike

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I validate if a new library is feasible for my software architecture?

To validate technical feasibility for your software architecture, build a disposable prototype that tests core functionality in an isolated environment. This structured experimentation proves or disproves high-risk concepts through observable output before committing to production code.

What is the best way to compare two technical approaches before building a feature?

Comparing technical approaches before building a feature is best done through side-by-side experiments that run isolated, throwaway prototypes. This evidence-based decision making reveals the optimal development path by analyzing observable output from each tested approach.

When should I use a spike to test technical risks instead of writing production code?

Use a spike to test technical risks instead of writing production code when you face uncertainty about new features. It provides a disposable framework to decompose risks and validate ideas quickly before investing significant development time.

Do I need a specific environment to run standalone scripts for prototyping?

Yes, you need a terminal environment to run standalone scripts for prototyping. This execution environment validates core functionality through observable output, ensuring your disposable experiments remain separate from your production codebase.

How do I structure a feasibility test for high-risk software ideas?

Structure a feasibility test for high-risk software ideas by decomposing technical risks into isolated experiments. Build standalone, throwaway prototypes that validate core functionality through observable output, enabling evidence-based decisions for your development roadmap.

Why does testing a new vector database in production code introduce unnecessary risk?

Testing a new vector database in production code introduces risk because unproven integrations may fail. Using disposable experiments instead validates the concept in minutes, providing evidence-based justification for the integration before impacting the main architecture.