investigation-methodology

Systematize investigations with a phased, evidence-based root cause analysis framework.

Updated Oct 8, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ichabodcole/project-docs-scaffold-template --skill investigation-methodology
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: investigation-methodology
Source: https://github.com/ichabodcole/project-docs-scaffold-template/tree/main/plugins/project-docs/skills/investigation-methodology
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ichabodcole/project-docs-scaffold-template --skill investigation-methodology

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

A systematic framework helps teams conduct investigations that produce defensible, evidence-based conclusions instead of ad-hoc reasoning.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Phased methodology (scoping, evidence gathering, analysis, and documentation) to organize investigations.
  • Clear guidance on collecting, validating, and organizing evidence to support conclusions.
  • Use cases include incident root-cause analysis, architecture reviews, and technology evaluations.

Quick Start

Begin by defining the investigation scope and initial hypotheses, then gather evidence, perform structured analysis, and generate a formal report.

Frequently Asked Questions about investigation-methodology

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is a defensible methodology for root cause analysis?▼

This methodology systematizes investigations into explicit phases: scoping, evidence gathering, structured analysis, and formal documentation, ensuring conclusions are evidence-based rather than ad-hoc reasoning.

How do I structure an investigation for incident root cause analysis?▼

Structure incident root cause analysis by defining the investigation scope and initial hypotheses, then gather and validate evidence, perform structured analysis, and generate a formal report with actionable recommendations.

Can I use this investigation framework for codebase archaeology and architecture reviews?▼

Yes, the investigation framework applies to codebase archaeology, architecture analysis, and technology evaluations, providing a structured methodology to guide scoping, evidence gathering, and analysis for thorough topic research.

What's the best way to document evidence during an investigation?▼

The best way to document evidence is to follow a phased methodology that provides clear guidance on collecting, validating, and organizing evidence to support defensible, evidence-based conclusions.

How does this methodology handle uncertainty during structured analysis?▼

This methodology handles uncertainty through principled, evidence-based analysis, ensuring that documentation explicitly accounts for unknowns and supports conclusions with validated evidence gathered during the investigation.

When do I need a structured investigation methodology instead of ad-hoc reasoning?▼

You need a structured investigation methodology when conclusions must be defensible, such as during incident root-cause analysis, architecture reviews, or technology evaluations, replacing ad-hoc reasoning with documented, evidence-based outputs.