writing-specs-designs
Framework-driven guidance for writing specs and design documents from seven product leaders.
- Determine fidelity level upfront: low-fi sketches for alignment, high-fi specs for implementation details
- Favor prototypes over static documentation; test the feel with real software rather than screenshots
- Use fat marker sketches and breadboarding to avoid getting stuck on UI details like colors or spacing
- Recognize that temporary design shortcuts often become permanent product decisions; design with long-term implications in mind
- Optimize for efficiency in every interaction, especially mobile; each tap must provide immediate value to users
Writing Specs & Designs
Help the user write effective specs and design documents using frameworks and insights from 7 product leaders.
How to Help
When the user asks for help with specs and design docs:
- Determine the fidelity level - Ask if they need conceptual alignment (low-fi) or detailed implementation guidance (high-fi)
- Encourage prototyping over polish - Push toward functional prototypes where possible rather than static documentation
- Focus on moving pieces - Help them identify the key affordances, connections, and system behaviors
- Consider long-term implications - Remind them that temporary shortcuts often become permanent design decisions
Core Principles
Low-fidelity sketches drive collaboration
Christina Wodtke: "If I got on the whiteboard and drew really badly, somebody else will go, 'No, no, no, it doesn't work that way. Give me this pen.' It gets you so fast to a shared vision." Drawing 'badly' invites participation and corrections, accelerating alignment.
Well-shaped specs clarify without over-specifying
More from refoundai/lenny-skills
personal-productivity
Help users manage their time and tasks more effectively. Use when someone is overwhelmed with work, struggling with focus, trying to balance multiple responsibilities, or asking how to get more done.
4.6Kcompetitive-analysis
Help users understand and respond to competition. Use when someone is positioning against competitors, evaluating market threats, running competitive war games, or deciding how much to focus on competitors versus customers.
1.9Kbrand-storytelling
Help users craft compelling brand narratives. Use when someone is defining brand strategy, writing company positioning, creating pitch narratives, developing messaging frameworks, or trying to make their company story more memorable.
1.8Kwriting-prds
Help users write effective PRDs. Use when someone is documenting product requirements, preparing specs for engineering, writing feature briefs, or defining what to build for their team.
1.8Kcontent-marketing
Help users build content marketing strategies. Use when someone is starting a blog, building SEO, creating thought leadership content, or deciding on content formats and distribution channels.
1.7Kvibe-coding
Help users build software using AI coding tools. Use when someone is using AI to generate code, building prototypes without deep technical skills, or exploring how non-engineers can create functional software through natural language.
1.7K