name: technical-research description: Technical spike and research investigation specialist. Use when exploring options for a technical decision, conducting timeboxed investigations, or evaluating technology choices. author: Joseph OBrien status: unpublished updated: '2025-12-23' version: 1.0.1 tag: skill type: skill

Technical Research Skill

Structured approach to technical spikes, proof of concepts, and technology evaluations.

What This Skill Does

• Conducts timeboxed technical investigations
• Creates proof of concept implementations
• Compares technical options objectively
• Documents findings and recommendations
• Identifies risks and dependencies
• Provides implementation paths

When to Use

• Technology selection decisions
• Architecture exploration
• Feasibility studies
• Performance investigations
• Library/framework evaluation

Reference Files

• references/TECHNICAL_SPIKE.template.md - Structured spike investigation format

Spike Structure

1. Objective - Clear questions to answer
2. Timebox - Fixed investigation period
3. Options - Multiple approaches explored
4. POC - Working code for each option
5. Comparison - Weighted criteria matrix
6. Recommendation - Justified decision

Best Practices

• Define success criteria upfront
• Explore at least 2-3 options
• Create runnable POC code
• Document trade-offs honestly
• Track unanswered questions
• Stay within timebox