Is the OpenSpec CLI required?

Yes, this skill is designed to work alongside the OpenSpec CLI to manage project knowledge bases and track change artifacts.

What kind of visualizations does it provide?

It uses ASCII diagrams to create system maps, state machines, data flows, and architecture sketches directly within the chat interface.

Can this skill write or implement code?

No, explore mode is strictly for thinking and discovery. It can read files and create technical artifacts, but you must exit explore mode to begin writing application code.

How does it help with legacy or brownfield code?

The skill investigates your existing codebase to find patterns, identify integration points, and surface hidden complexities, helping you understand the system before making changes.

OpenSpec Explore Mode

Name: OpenSpec Explore Mode
Author: TomazWang

byTomazWang

•

Learning & Documentation

Engages as a thinking partner to explore architectural ideas, clarify requirements, and investigate codebase complexity without writing code.

OpenSpec Explore Mode transforms Claude into a high-level architectural collaborator, shifting the focus from implementation to deep discovery and problem-solving. By utilizing the OpenSpec system, it allows users to brainstorm solutions, visualize system flows with ASCII diagrams, and map existing codebase patterns before committing to changes. This skill is specifically designed for the discovery phase of a project, enabling you to identify hidden risks and clarify vague requirements while remaining grounded in the reality of your current codebase.

Key Features

01Visual system modeling using ASCII diagrams and flowcharts

021 GitHub stars

03Deep architectural brainstorming and problem reframing

04Seamless integration with OpenSpec artifacts like proposals and designs

05Comparative analysis of technical options and trade-offs

06Automatic codebase mapping and integration point identification

Use Cases

01Mapping dependencies and hidden complexity in legacy brownfield projects

02Brainstorming and refining technical requirements before starting a new feature

03Evaluating architectural trade-offs between different technical stacks or libraries

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add tomazwang/deepfield openspec-explore

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

Key Features

01Visual system modeling using ASCII diagrams and flowcharts

021 GitHub stars

03Deep architectural brainstorming and problem reframing

04Seamless integration with OpenSpec artifacts like proposals and designs

05Comparative analysis of technical options and trade-offs

06Automatic codebase mapping and integration point identification

Use Cases

01Mapping dependencies and hidden complexity in legacy brownfield projects

02Brainstorming and refining technical requirements before starting a new feature

03Evaluating architectural trade-offs between different technical stacks or libraries

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add tomazwang/deepfield openspec-explore

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT