OpenSpec
Spec-driven development framework for managing AI coding assistants.
Align humans and AI on requirements before writing any code.
OpenSpec is a spec framework that adds a lightweight markdown requirement layer to AI coding assistants. It suits developers who want to keep AI coding predictable and organized.
What it is
It creates structured folders for proposals, specifications, technical designs, and task checklists. You interact with it using slash commands in over 30 AI coding tools to plan changes before writing code.
Who it's for
It suits software engineers using AI coding assistants who struggle with vague prompts and unpredictable results. It does not suit developers who prefer writing code entirely without planning or architectural specifications.
Key features
Explore Before Coding
Use the explore command as a thinking partner to weigh options before generating a plan.
Plain Markdown Specs
Define requirements using clear markdown scenarios without learning a special syntax.
Cross-Repo Stores
Plan features that span multiple repositories using a shared specification store.
Multi-Tool Support
Integrate with over 30 AI coding assistants via standard slash commands.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Prevents unpredictable AI output by enforcing requirements and plans before coding
- Works with more than 30 different AI coding tools and assistants
- Stores feature proposals and specs in plain markdown inside your repository
- Supports cross-repo feature planning for complex platform architectures
Where it falls short
- Requires Node.js 20.19.0 or higher to install and run globally
- Demands discipline to maintain specs and clean context windows during sessions
- Collects anonymous telemetry data by default unless explicitly disabled
Pricing & license
OpenSpec is open source with no license fees. The only cost is running it yourself on your local machine and managing your Node.js environment.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
What AI models work best with OpenSpec?
The maintainers recommend high-reasoning models like Codex 5.5 and Opus 4.7 for both planning and implementation phases.
How do I disable telemetry?
You can opt out by running openspec config set telemetry.enabled false or by setting an environment variable like OPENSPEC_TELEMETRY=0.
