system-topology

Decide system topology from measured constraints against explicit alternatives.

Updated May 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness --skill system-topology
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: system-topology
Source: https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness/tree/main/plugins/tk-house-style/skills/system-topology
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness --skill system-topology

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps design a system's topology, choosing between monolith, modular, microservices, etc., by considering explicit constraints and measured justifications.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Explicit Decision Making: Encourages choosing a system topology explicitly and against an enumerated alternative set.
  • Measurement-Based Justification: Requires providing a measured justification for the chosen topology.
  • Catalogue of Topologies: Provides a catalogue of seven topologies to guide the decision.
  • Default to Modular Monolith: Suggests a default topology of modular monolith unless specific measured constraints justify a different choice.

Quick Start

Run the 'system-topology' skill to start a design plan for a new system and follow the prompts to decide on the system topology.

Frequently Asked Questions about system-topology

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I decide between a monolith and microservices for system design?▼

To decide on system topology, you compare explicit constraints against a catalogue of seven topologies. The default recommendation is a modular monolith unless measured constraints justify a different architecture.

What is the best way to justify a system topology choice for cross-boundary processes?▼

Justifying system topology requires providing measured justifications for your choice against an enumerated alternative set. This ensures design decisions for cross-boundary services are explicitly documented rather than assumed.

When do I need to evaluate system topology for new deploys?▼

You need to evaluate system topology during design planning for new systems involving cross-boundary processes, services, or deploys. It forces an explicit choice between architecture patterns using documented constraints.

How to start a design plan for choosing a modular monolith architecture?▼

Start a design plan by running the skill to follow prompts that guide your system topology decision. It suggests defaulting to a modular monolith unless you provide measured constraints that justify another topology.

What are the limitations of choosing microservices without measured constraints?▼

Choosing microservices without measured constraints bypasses explicit decision making against alternatives like a modular monolith. Without documented justification, you risk selecting a topology that does not fit your system design needs.

Can I use this approach for any system design involving cross-boundary services?▼

Yes, you can use this approach for any design planning involving cross-boundary processes, services, or deploys. It requires documented constraints and measured justification to validate the chosen system topology.