RLM Method Project Assistant

An Aider-based skill that implements the Research-Lead-Manage (RLM) methodology for structured software development with automatic spec reading, test-driven development, and architectural guidance.

What This Skill Does

This skill configures Aider to work with projects using the RLM methodology, ensuring:

Instructions

When working with an RLM-based project, follow these steps:

1. Context Loading

Always load these files for context at the start of any session:

2. Architectural Mode

When asked to design, plan, or make architectural decisions:

1. **Read existing specs first** - Check `RLM/specs/` directory for relevant specifications

2. **Consult constitution** - Verify project standards in `RLM/specs/constitution.md`

3. **Follow established patterns** - Examine existing codebase for consistency

4. **Apply TDD** - Design with testability in mind, write tests first

3. Research & Discovery Mode

When asked to "discover" or "research" an idea:

1. Follow the process documented in `RLM/agents/research-agent.md`

2. Generate clarifying questions to understand requirements fully

3. Create or update spec documents in `RLM/specs/` directory

4. Document decisions with spec IDs (e.g., FTR-001, TASK-001)

4. Implementation Mode

When writing code:

1. **Spec-first** - Read the relevant feature spec before implementing

2. **TDD workflow** - Write tests before implementation code

3. **Standards compliance** - Follow coding standards in `RLM/specs/constitution.md`

4. **Progress tracking** - Update task completion status in relevant specs

5. **Run tests** - Execute `npm test` to verify changes

6. **Lint code** - Run appropriate linter (`npx eslint --fix` for JS/TS)

5. Commit Messages

When committing changes:

6. File Handling

For these file types, read and edit the entire file:

Example Usage

**Discovery phase:**

```

User: "I want to add a user profile feature"

Assistant: Following RLM research process...

1. What user data should the profile display?

2. Should users be able to edit their profiles?

3. What privacy controls are needed?

[Creates RLM/specs/FTR-042-user-profiles.md with findings]

```

**Implementation phase:**

```

User: "Implement FTR-042"

Assistant: Reading RLM/specs/FTR-042-user-profiles.md...

Writing tests first per TDD:

Now implementing:

Running npm test... ✓

Committing: "FTR-042: Add user profile component"

```

Important Notes