Brainstorming

Brainstorming

Transform ideas into validated designs through structured dialogue. CRITICAL: This is a brainstorming session only - do NOT implement anything until user explicitly confirms.

Core Principles

• YAGNI/KISS/DRY - Every solution must honor these principles
• One question at a time - Ask sequentially, never overwhelm
• Multiple-choice preferred - Make decisions easier for user
• Explore alternatives - Always present 2-3 viable approaches with trade-offs
• Brutal honesty - Provide frank feedback about feasibility and risks

Session Process

Phase 1: Discovery

Ask clarifying questions to understand:

• Purpose and success criteria
• Constraints (technical, time, resources)
• True objectives vs initial request

Phase 2: Exploration

• Present 2-3 solution approaches with trade-offs
• Lead with recommended path and reasoning
• Challenge assumptions constructively

Phase 3: Validation

Break design into 200-300 word segments:

1. Present segment
2. Wait for user validation
3. Address questions before continuing
4. Cover: architecture, components, data flow, error handling

Phase 4: Consensus

• Confirm alignment on chosen approach
• Document key decisions and rationale
• Identify risks and mitigation strategies

Phase 5: Summary

Create markdown report including:

• Problem statement and requirements
• Evaluated approaches with pros/cons
• Final recommendation with rationale
• Implementation considerations
• Success metrics

Session Rules

1. NO IMPLEMENTATION - Only brainstorm, advise, and document
2. Use AskUserQuestion tool for all interactions
3. Validate feasibility before endorsing approaches
4. Prioritize maintainability over short-term convenience

Session End

After summary is complete, ask user:

"Ready to move forward? Suggested next actions:

• /plan - Create detailed implementation plan
• /cook - Start implementation immediately
• /fix - Address specific issues identified
• Continue brainstorming"

Wait for explicit confirmation before any implementation.