Workflows

Workflows automate multi-step Spec Kit processes through YAML definitions. They chain agent commands, prompts, shell tasks, control flow, and human review gates into repeatable, resumable runs. They are distinct from the processes you follow manually with /speckit.* commands and from GitHub Actions workflows.

Before you start

Install the Specify CLI and initialize your project with an agent integration. Agent command and prompt steps require an integration capable of CLI execution. Shell-only local YAML workflows can run outside an initialized project.

Review a workflow's source before installation and use, including companion scripts, called workflows, custom step packages, and active overlays. Catalog listing and install permission are not evidence of code review or safety.

Run, review, and resume

specify workflow search
specify workflow add speckit
specify workflow run speckit --input spec="Build a kanban board"

The bundled SDD workflow runs specify, plan, tasks, and implement, with review gates after specification and planning. On an interactive terminal a gate asks for a verdict; otherwise it pauses. Review the output and resume the same run:

specify workflow status <run_id>
specify workflow resume <run_id>

Each run gets its own ID and state directory. Completed occurrences are replayed into the expression context without re-executing their implementations. Unfinished work continues from its persisted state; a side effect interrupted before its completion checkpoint may still repeat.

You can also run a local definition without installing it:

specify workflow run ./workflow.yml --input spec="Build a kanban board"

Bundled workflows

ID Purpose Main input
speckit Full SDD delivery cycle with specification and plan review gates spec
bugfix Bug assessment, fixing, and validation report
assess Idea intake, research, definition, shaping, and decision idea

Use specify workflow info <id> for metadata, inputs, and the step graph. The speckit workflow declares spec and optional integration, not a scope input. Workflows using extension commands also need those commands installed; consult each bundled definition's requirements.

Customize a workflow

Author a definition for a new automation process, call another installed workflow through a workflow step, or use overlays to customize an installed workflow without editing its package. An overlay can fill a named slot or insert, replace, and remove steps; it cannot change the base input schema.

FAQ

Can I run the same workflow multiple times?

Yes. Runs have independent IDs and persisted state. specify workflow status lists runs; supplying a run ID shows its status.

What happens at a review gate?

A declared verdict input can decide the gate without a prompt. Otherwise a gate prompts on a TTY or pauses for resume. Rejection can abort, skip, or pause for retry, according to its configuration.

Who maintains workflows?

Most workflows are independently maintained by their authors. Maintainers check community catalog entries for form and completeness, not workflow code. They do not review, audit, endorse, or support that code. Users must vet source before installation and use.

See also