spike

Validate technical feasibility through rapid, disposable prototyping and experimental research.

Updated May 5, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/iani-kuli/harness_bro --skill spike-iani-kuli
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: spike
Source: https://github.com/iani-kuli/harness_bro/tree/main/.claude/skills/ported/spike
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/iani-kuli/harness_bro --skill spike-iani-kuli

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill solves the uncertainty of whether a technical approach is feasible by providing a structured, time-boxed framework for rapid experimentation before committing to full-scale development.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Feasibility Validation: Quickly test if a specific library, API, or architectural pattern works as expected.
  • Comparison Testing: Run side-by-side experiments (e.g., comparing two different parsing libraries) to determine the best tool for the job.
  • Use Case: Before building a complex websocket integration, use this skill to create a minimal, throwaway prototype to verify that your server can handle the required stream throughput.

Quick Start

Use the spike skill to validate if the proposed integration with the external API is feasible by building a small prototype.

Frequently Asked Questions about spike

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I validate technical feasibility before committing to full-scale development?

You validate technical feasibility by using rapid, disposable prototyping to test unknowns before committing to full-scale development. This structured, time-boxed framework decomposes architectural risks into testable hypotheses with observable outcomes.

What is a spike in software engineering and when do I need it?

A spike is a time-boxed experimental research process for early-stage development and architectural decision-making. You apply it when technical uncertainty exists about whether a specific library, API, or architectural pattern works as expected.

How do I compare two libraries for an integration project?

You compare libraries by running side-by-side experiments to determine the best tool for the job. Create minimal, throwaway prototypes for each option to observe throughput and behavior under your specific use case requirements.

Can I use disposable prototypes to test websocket stream throughput?

Yes, disposable prototypes can test websocket stream throughput by verifying your server handles the required stream volume. Build a minimal, throwaway prototype to validate the integration works before constructing the complex system.

What's the best way to assess risk for new software features?

Risk assessment for new features requires systematic decomposition of unknowns into testable hypotheses with observable outcomes. The best approach is time-boxed experimental research using rapid prototypes rather than committing to full-scale development immediately.