guarding-scope

Prevent scope creep by checking if requested changes align with the current feature's requirements.

When to Use

Invoke this skill when the user:

• Requests new functionality while implementing a feature
• Asks to add something that seems tangential
• Proposes changes not in the original requirements
• Says "while we're at it, let's also..."

Do NOT invoke for:

• Bug fixes in feature code
• Refactoring within scope
• Clarifying existing requirements
• Implementation details of planned features

Instructions

Step 1: Identify Current Feature

Read docs/features/DASHBOARD.md and look at the In Progress section to find the active feature.

If none or unclear, skip scope check - don't block the user.

Step 2: Load Requirements

Read docs/features/[id]/idea.md

Extract: problem statement, affected areas, proposed solution hints.

Also read docs/features/[id]/plan.md for:

• Implementation steps (what was planned)
• Technical decisions made

Step 3: Analyze the Request

In Scope - Implements the problem statement, reasonable extension of the feature, bug fix, or implementation detail.

Potential Scope Creep - New functionality not related to problem statement, affects other areas beyond what's listed, would require updating the plan significantly.

Clearly Out of Scope - Unrelated to problem statement, better as its own feature.

Step 4: Respond

• In scope: Proceed without comment
• Potential creep: Flag it, offer options (include, add to backlog, skip)
• Out of scope: Suggest /feature-capture

Be helpful, not obstructive. Respect user's decision.

Example

User: "While we're adding dark mode, let's also add notification preferences"

Response:

This seems outside the current feature scope.

**Current Feature**: Dark Mode Toggle
**Original Scope**: Theme switching with light/dark modes
**Your Request**: Notification preferences

Options:
1. **Include it** - Add to current feature (increases scope)
2. **Add to backlog** - Track separately: `/feature-capture`
3. **Skip for now** - Focus on dark mode first

What would you like to do?

Integration Notes

This skill works with:

• checking-backlog skill - For checking if idea is already tracked
• /feature-capture - For adding out-of-scope items