Keep/.agent/skills/bmad-workflow-builder/references/classification-reference.md

Workflow Classification Reference

Classify the skill type based on user requirements. This table is for internal use — DO NOT show to user.

3-Type Taxonomy

Type	Description	Structure	When to Use
Simple Utility	Input/output building block. Headless, composable, often has scripts.	Single SKILL.md + scripts/	Composable building block with clear input/output, single-purpose
Simple Workflow	Multi-step process contained in a single SKILL.md. Minimal or no prompt files.	SKILL.md + optional references/	Multi-step process that fits in one file, no progressive disclosure needed
Complex Workflow	Multi-stage with progressive disclosure, numbered prompt files at root, config integration. May support headless mode.	SKILL.md (routing) + prompt stages at root + references/	Multiple stages, long-running process, progressive disclosure, routing logic

Decision Tree

1. Is it a composable building block with clear input/output?
   └─ YES → Simple Utility
   └─ NO ↓

2. Can it fit in a single SKILL.md without progressive disclosure?
   └─ YES → Simple Workflow
   └─ NO ↓

3. Does it need multiple stages, long-running process, or progressive disclosure?
   └─ YES → Complex Workflow

Classification Signals

Simple Utility Signals

• Clear input → processing → output pattern
• No user interaction needed during execution
• Other skills/workflows call it
• Deterministic or near-deterministic behavior
• Could be a script but needs LLM judgment
• Examples: JSON validator, schema checker, format converter

Simple Workflow Signals

• 3-8 numbered steps
• User interaction at specific points
• Uses standard tools (gh, git, npm, etc.)
• Produces a single output artifact
• No need to track state across compactions
• Examples: PR creator, deployment checklist, code review

Complex Workflow Signals

• Multiple distinct phases/stages
• Long-running (likely to hit context compaction)
• Progressive disclosure needed (too much for one file)
• Routing logic in SKILL.md dispatches to stage prompts
• Produces multiple artifacts across stages
• May support headless/autonomous mode
• Examples: agent builder, module builder, project scaffolder

Module Context (Orthogonal)

Module context is asked for ALL types:

• Module-based: Part of a BMad module. Uses bmad-{modulecode}-{skillname} naming. Config loading includes a fallback pattern — if config is missing, the skill informs the user that the module setup skill is available and continues with sensible defaults.
• Standalone: Independent skill. Uses bmad-{skillname} naming. Config loading is best-effort — load if available, use defaults if not, no mention of a setup skill.