architecture-research

name	architecture-research
description	Research the architecture of a codebase or system. Reads source code, finds external context, explains design decisions, and produces ELK diagrams. Use when asked to understand, explain, or diagram how a repo/system is built.
compatibility	Requires: diagrams skill (clawhub install diagrams)

Architecture Research

Trigger

Activate when the user wants to:

• Understand how a repo or system is architected
• Get diagrams of a codebase's structure or data flow
• Understand design decisions and trade-offs in a project

Workflow

1. Read the Source

Clone or browse the repo. Read actual code — module structure, entry points, key abstractions. Don't rely solely on READMEs.

Focus on:

• Directory structure and module boundaries
• Entry points and public APIs
• Data models and storage
• Config and dependency injection patterns
• Build/deploy setup

2. Find External Context

Search for official docs, blog posts, conference talks, design docs, ADRs, and community discussions that explain the why behind the architecture.

Cite what you find. If you're inferring rationale (no source), say so explicitly.

3. Explain from Multiple Angles

Cover at least these perspectives:

Angle	What to show
System overview	Major components and how they connect
Data/control flow