system-design
Use when designing system architecture, APIs, components, or data models - provides a structured design workflow with validation and documentation outputs.
Best use case
system-design is best used when you need a repeatable AI agent workflow instead of a one-off prompt.
Use when designing system architecture, APIs, components, or data models - provides a structured design workflow with validation and documentation outputs.
Teams using system-design should expect a more consistent output, faster repeated execution, less prompt rewriting.
When to use this skill
- You want a reusable workflow that can be run more than once with consistent structure.
When not to use this skill
- You only need a quick one-off answer and do not need a reusable workflow.
- You cannot install or maintain the underlying files, dependencies, or repository context.
Installation
Claude Code / Cursor / Codex
Manual Installation
- Download SKILL.md from GitHub
- Place it in
.claude/skills/system-design/SKILL.mdinside your project - Restart your AI agent — it will auto-discover the skill
How system-design Compares
| Feature / Agent | system-design | Standard Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Support | Not specified | Limited / Varies |
| Context Awareness | High | Baseline |
| Installation Complexity | Unknown | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this skill do?
Use when designing system architecture, APIs, components, or data models - provides a structured design workflow with validation and documentation outputs.
Where can I find the source code?
You can find the source code on GitHub using the link provided at the top of the page.
SKILL.md Source
# System Design ## Overview Create clear system, API, component, or data model designs with explicit requirements, constraints, and validation steps. ## When to Use - Designing system architecture or components - Specifying APIs or data models - Producing design docs or diagrams Avoid when: - You only need implementation tasks (use implementation-workflow) ## Quick Reference | Task | Load reference | | --- | --- | | System design workflow | `skills/system-design/references/system.md` | ## Workflow 1. Gather requirements and constraints. 2. Load the system design reference. 3. Define structure, interfaces, and data flows. 4. Validate against constraints and best practices. 5. Deliver spec/diagram/code artifacts. ## Output - Design spec or diagram - Validation notes and follow-ups ## Common Mistakes - Designing without constraints - Mixing implementation details with spec scope