# System Design

> Use when designing system architecture, APIs, components, or data models - provides a structured design workflow with validation and documentation outputs.

- Skill: `nickcrew/system-design` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds add nickcrew/system-design`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/nickcrew/system-design/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Docs & Writing
- Author: nickcrew (https://skillmd.com/u/nickcrew)
- Updated: 2026-09-09
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/nickcrew/system-design

---


# 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