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What is Simple Flow?

Simple Flow is a lightweight spec-driven development workflow for projects that don’t need the full complexity of AI-DLC. It guides you through three phases to transform a feature idea into an actionable implementation plan.
Think of it as: Kiro-style spec-driven development that works with any AI coding tool—Claude Code, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, and more.

Three Phases

PhaseOutputPurpose
Requirementsrequirements.mdDefine what to build with user stories and EARS criteria
Designdesign.mdCreate technical design with architecture and Mermaid diagrams
Taskstasks.mdGenerate implementation checklist with coding tasks
One agent (/specsmd-agent) guides you through all phases.

When to Use Simple Flow

Simple Flow

Spec generation only
  • Building prototypes or MVPs
  • Quick feature specs
  • Handoff to other teams
  • No execution tracking needed

FIRE Flow

Adaptive execution
  • Teams who hate friction
  • Brownfield projects
  • Monorepos
  • Ship in hours, not days

AI-DLC Flow

Full methodology
  • Multi-team coordination
  • Complex domain logic (DDD)
  • Regulated environments
  • Full traceability needed
Independent Flows: Flows are designed for different use cases—they’re not an upgrade path. Choose based on your project needs. Compare all flows →

Flow Comparison

AspectSimpleFIREAI-DLC
Optimized ForSpec generationAdaptive executionFull traceability
Checkpoints3 (phase gates)AdaptiveComprehensive
Agents134
Execution TrackingNoYesYes
PhasesReq → Design → TasksPlan → ExecuteInception → Construction → Operations
Outputspecs/ folder.specs-fire/memory-bank/
Design DocsBasicWhen neededDDD or Simple bolt
OverheadMinimalAdaptiveSignificant

Output Structure

Simple Flow creates a clean, flat structure:
specs/
└── {feature-name}/
    ├── requirements.md    # What to build
    ├── design.md          # How to build it
    └── tasks.md           # Step-by-step plan
No complex memory-bank hierarchy—just specs.

Core Principles

Generate First, Ask Later

The agent generates a draft document immediately based on your feature idea. This serves as a starting point for discussion rather than requiring extensive Q&A upfront.

Explicit Approval Gates

You must explicitly approve each phase before proceeding. Say “yes”, “approved”, or “looks good” to continue. Any feedback triggers revision.

One Phase at a Time

The agent focuses on one document per interaction. Complete each phase before moving to the next.

One Task at a Time

During execution, only one task is implemented per interaction. This allows careful review of each change.

Getting Started

Quick Start

Get started with Simple Flow in minutes

Three Phases

Learn about Requirements, Design, and Tasks