{"id":18101,"plugin_id":"plugins_6a85a87df50c8191bd7f010bb7b17794","kind":"skill","collection_source":null,"comparison_source":null,"observed_at":"2026-09-30T23:14:37.458Z","digest":"63a6ef24430384694df803118b21f793fba347782084a968142913ab1107e192","against":null,"payload":{"description":"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.","included_files":[],"name":"principle-exhaust-the-design-space","skill_md_contents":"---\nname: principle-exhaust-the-design-space\ndescription: \"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.\"\ndisable-model-invocation: true\n---\n\n# Exhaust the Design Space\n\nWhen 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.\n\n**The rule.** When the right answer is not obvious, build 2-3 competing prototypes or sketches. Compare them side by side. Only then commit. Design it twice is this rule by another name. A second flavor of the first shape does not count.\n\n**When it applies:**\n- Novel UI interactions (no prior art in the codebase)\n- Architectural choices with multiple viable approaches\n- Product design decisions where user experience depends on feel, not logic\n\n**When it doesn't:**\n- Mechanical implementation where the pattern is established\n- Bug fixes or refactors with a clear target state\n- Changes where constraints dictate a single viable approach\n"},"changes":[],"summary":"First saved snapshot. No earlier version is available for comparison.","summary_kind":"deterministic","summary_metadata":{}}