validate-gap.md 4.0 KB


description: Analyze implementation gap between requirements and existing codebase allowed-tools: Bash, Glob, Grep, Read, Write, Edit, MultiEdit, WebSearch, WebFetch

argument-hint:

Implementation Gap Validation

  • Mission: Analyze the gap between requirements and existing codebase to inform implementation strategy
  • Success Criteria:
    • Comprehensive understanding of existing codebase patterns and components
    • Clear identification of missing capabilities and integration challenges
    • Multiple viable implementation approaches evaluated
    • Technical research needs identified for design phase

Core Task

Analyze implementation gap for feature $1 based on approved requirements and existing codebase.

Execution Steps

  1. Load Context:

    • Read .kiro/specs/$1/spec.json for language and metadata
    • Read .kiro/specs/$1/requirements.md for requirements
    • Load ALL steering context: Read entire .kiro/steering/ directory including:
      • Default files: structure.md, tech.md, product.md
      • All custom steering files (regardless of mode settings)
      • This provides complete project memory and context
  2. Read Analysis Guidelines:

    • Read .kiro/settings/rules/gap-analysis.md for comprehensive analysis framework
  3. Execute Gap Analysis:

    • Follow gap-analysis.md framework for thorough investigation
    • Analyze existing codebase using Grep and Read tools
    • Use WebSearch/WebFetch for external dependency research if needed
    • Evaluate multiple implementation approaches (extend/new/hybrid)
    • Use language specified in spec.json for output
  4. Generate Analysis Document:

    • Create comprehensive gap analysis following the output guidelines in gap-analysis.md
    • Present multiple viable options with trade-offs
    • Flag areas requiring further research

Important Constraints

  • Information over Decisions: Provide analysis and options, not final implementation choices
  • Multiple Options: Present viable alternatives when applicable
  • Thorough Investigation: Use tools to deeply understand existing codebase
  • Explicit Gaps: Clearly flag areas needing research or investigation

Tool Guidance

  • Read first: Load all context (spec, steering, rules) before analysis
  • Grep extensively: Search codebase for patterns, conventions, and integration points
  • WebSearch/WebFetch: Research external dependencies and best practices when needed
  • Write last: Generate analysis only after complete investigation

Output Description

Provide output in the language specified in spec.json with:

  1. Analysis Summary: Brief overview (3-5 bullets) of scope, challenges, and recommendations
  2. Document Status: Confirm analysis approach used
  3. Next Steps: Guide user on proceeding to design phase

Format Requirements:

  • Use Markdown headings for clarity
  • Keep summary concise (under 300 words)
  • Detailed analysis follows gap-analysis.md output guidelines

Safety & Fallback

Error Scenarios

  • Missing Requirements: If requirements.md doesn't exist, stop with message: "Run /kiro:spec-requirements $1 first to generate requirements"
  • Requirements Not Approved: If requirements not approved, warn user but proceed (gap analysis can inform requirement revisions)
  • Empty Steering Directory: Warn user that project context is missing and may affect analysis quality
  • Complex Integration Unclear: Flag for comprehensive research in design phase rather than blocking
  • Language Undefined: Default to English (en) if spec.json doesn't specify language

Next Phase: Design Generation

If Gap Analysis Complete:

  • Review gap analysis insights
  • Run /kiro:spec-design $1 to create technical design document
  • Or /kiro:spec-design $1 -y to auto-approve requirements and proceed directly

Note: Gap analysis is optional but recommended for brownfield projects to inform design decisions.