create-github-action-workflow-specification
Create a formal specification for an existing GitHub Actions CI/CD workflow, optimized for AI consumption and workflow maintenance.
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npx skills add github/awesome-copilot --skill create-github-action-workflow-specification
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Create GitHub Actions Workflow Specification
Create a comprehensive specification for the GitHub Actions workflow: ${input:WorkflowFile} .
This specification serves as a specification for the workflow's behavior, requirements, and constraints. It must be implementation agnostic, focusing on what the workflow accomplishes rather than how it's implemented.
AI Optimized Requirements
Token Efficiency : Use concise language without sacrificing clarity
Structured Data : Leverage tables, lists, and diagrams for dense information
Semantic Clarity : Use precise terminology consistently throughout
Implementation Abstraction : Avoid specific syntax, commands, or tool versions
Maintainability : Design for easy updates as workflow evolves
Specification Template
Save as: /spec/spec process cicd [workflow name].md
mermaid
graph TD
A[Trigger Event] B[Job 1]
B C[Job 2]
C D[Job 3]
D E[End]
B F[Parallel Job]
F D
style A fill: e1f5fe
style E fill: e8f5e8
yaml
Environment Variables
ENV VAR 1: string Purpose: [description]
ENV VAR 2: secret Purpose: [description]
Repository Triggers
paths: [list of path filters]
branches: [list of branch patterns]
yaml
Job Outputs
job 1 output: string Description: [purpose]
build artifact: file Description: [content type]
Analysis Instructions
When analyzing the workflow file:
1. Extract Core Purpose : Identify the primary business objective
2. Map Job Flow : Create dependency graph showing execution order
3. Identify Contracts : Document inputs, outputs, and interfaces
4. Capture Constraints : Extract timeouts, permissions, and limits
5. Define Quality Gates : Identify validation and approval points
6. Document Error Paths : Map failure scenarios and recovery
7. Abstract Implementation : Focus on behavior, not syntax
Mermaid Diagram Guidelines
Flow Types
Sequential : A B C
Parallel : A B & A C; B D & C D
Conditional : A B{Decision}; B Yes C; B No D
Styling
Complex Workflows
For workflows with 5+ jobs, use subgraphs:
Token Optimization Strategies
1. Use Tables : Dense information in structured format
2. Abbreviate Consistently : Define once, use throughout
3. Bullet Points : Avoid prose paragraphs
4. Code Blocks : Structured data over narrative
5. Cross Reference : Link instead of repeat information
Focus on creating a specification that serves as both documentation and a template for workflow updates.