How does it handle justified complexity?

The skill includes a validation protocol that permits complexity when it is backed by measured performance needs, security threat models, or regulatory compliance requirements.

Does it provide code examples for simpler alternatives?

Yes, the skill is designed to provide concrete, specific code examples—such as using native JavaScript methods instead of external libraries like Lodash where appropriate.

What are common 'complexity smells' the skill detects?

It watches for patterns like Performance Theater (optimizing without metrics), Security Shortcuts, Framework Overkill, and Indirect Solutions.

When should I trigger the Simplify skill?

You should use this skill during feature planning, architectural reviews, or whenever discussions involve terms like 'over-engineering', 'is this overkill', or 'keeping it simple'.

Can this skill help with Architectural Decision Records (ADRs)?

Yes, the final stage of the Simplify workflow is 'Document', which ensures that any chosen complexity and its rationale are properly recorded for the team.

Simplify Architecture & Logic

Name: Simplify Architecture & Logic
Author: outfitter-dev

byoutfitter-dev

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Productivity & Workflow

Eliminates over-engineering by systematically challenging complexity and proposing lean, maintainable alternatives during the development process.

About

The Simplify skill acts as an architectural guardrail for Claude, ensuring that codebases remain maintainable and free from unnecessary abstractions. It provides a structured framework to detect 'complexity smells' such as premature optimization, framework overkill, and custom infrastructure builds. By guiding the AI to push back against 'we might need it later' thinking and providing concrete, simpler alternatives, it helps development teams focus on delivering value without the technical debt of over-engineered solutions.

Key Features

Automated proposal of lean code alternatives using standard libraries and direct patterns
Systematic complexity smell detection for patterns like framework overkill and premature abstraction
Multi-stage workflow for identifying, questioning, and documenting architectural decisions
Escalating intervention levels from minor suggestions to critical hazard warnings
Decision validation framework to ensure complexity is only introduced when justified by data
18 GitHub stars

Use Cases

Evaluating new feature proposals to prevent unnecessary architectural layers
Refactoring legacy code to replace complex custom utilities with modern standard library features
Assessing 'Build vs Buy' decisions for infrastructure, authentication, and state management

About

Key Features

Automated proposal of lean code alternatives using standard libraries and direct patterns
Systematic complexity smell detection for patterns like framework overkill and premature abstraction
Multi-stage workflow for identifying, questioning, and documenting architectural decisions
Escalating intervention levels from minor suggestions to critical hazard warnings
Decision validation framework to ensure complexity is only introduced when justified by data
18 GitHub stars

Use Cases

Evaluating new feature proposals to prevent unnecessary architectural layers
Refactoring legacy code to replace complex custom utilities with modern standard library features
Assessing 'Build vs Buy' decisions for infrastructure, authentication, and state management