Can I use it to update documentation?

Yes, while it won't write app code, it can create or update OpenSpec artifacts like design.md, proposal.md, and specs to capture your architectural decisions.

How do I transition from exploring to building?

Once your plan is crystallized, you can exit explore mode and start a change using commands like /opsx:new or /opsx:ff to begin implementation.

Does this skill write application code?

No, Explore Mode is strictly for thinking and investigation. It helps you plan and document your approach but will never modify your application source code.

Does it have access to my local files?

Yes, it can read and analyze your existing codebase to provide grounded, context-aware architectural advice and diagrams based on your actual implementation.

OpenSpec Explore Mode

Name: OpenSpec Explore Mode
Author: ValorVie

byValorVie

•

Developer Tools

Transforms Claude into a collaborative thinking partner for brainstorming architecture, clarifying requirements, and investigating codebases without making changes.

OpenSpec Explore is a specialized Claude Code skill designed for the discovery and planning phases of software development. It establishes a dedicated 'explore mode' where Claude acts as a consultative partner rather than an implementer, helping users think through complex problems, visualize system architecture with ASCII diagrams, and map out requirements before a single line of application code is written. By strictly prohibiting code writes while allowing deep codebase analysis and OpenSpec artifact creation (such as proposals and design docs), it provides a safe, high-level environment for architectural decision-making, risk assessment, and technical brainstorming.

Key Features

01Interactive comparison of technical options and trade-offs

02Seamless integration with OpenSpec artifacts for proposals and designs

03Visual brainstorming using detailed ASCII diagrams and flowcharts

043 GitHub stars

05Deep codebase investigation and architectural mapping

06Risk identification and assumption testing for new features

Use Cases

01Investigating legacy codebases to understand existing patterns and dependencies

02Clarifying vague requirements and identifying hidden technical complexity

03Brainstorming a new feature's architecture before starting implementation

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add valorvie/custom-skills openspec-explore

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

Download Skill