# Principle Exhaust The Design Space

> Apply when facing a novel UI interaction or architectural decision with no precedent in the codebase. Build 2-3 competing prototypes and compare side by side before committing.

- Skill: `v1truv1us-ai-eng-system/principle-exhaust-the-design-space` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds add v1truv1us-ai-eng-system/principle-exhaust-the-design-space`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/v1truv1us-ai-eng-system/principle-exhaust-the-design-space/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: v1truv1us (https://skillmd.com/u/v1truv1us-ai-eng-system)
- Updated: 2026-09-10
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/v1truv1us-ai-eng-system/principle-exhaust-the-design-space

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# Exhaust the Design Space

When a novel interaction or architectural decision has no established precedent, explore several concrete alternatives before implementation. Building the wrong thing costs more than exploring three options.

**The rule:** When the right answer is not obvious, build 2-3 competing prototypes or sketches. Compare them side by side. Only then commit.

**When it applies:**
- Novel UI interactions (no prior art in the codebase)
- Architectural choices with multiple viable approaches
- Product design decisions where user experience depends on feel, not logic

**When it doesn't:**
- Mechanical implementation where the pattern is established
- Bug fixes or refactors with a clear target state
- Changes where constraints dictate a single viable approach