40 KiB
Create Expansion Pack Task
This task helps you create a sophisticated BMAD expansion pack with advanced agent orchestration, template systems, and quality assurance patterns based on proven best practices.
Understanding Expansion Packs
Expansion packs extend BMAD with domain-specific capabilities using sophisticated AI agent orchestration patterns. They are self-contained packages that leverage:
- Advanced Agent Architecture: YAML-in-Markdown with embedded personas and character consistency
- Template Systems: LLM instruction embedding with conditional content and dynamic variables
- Workflow Orchestration: Decision trees, handoff protocols, and validation loops
- Quality Assurance: Multi-level validation with star ratings and comprehensive checklists
- Knowledge Integration: Domain-specific data organization and best practices embedding
Every expansion pack MUST include a custom BMAD orchestrator agent with sophisticated command systems and numbered options protocols.
CRITICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Create Planning Document First: Before any implementation, create a comprehensive plan for user approval
- Agent Architecture Standards: Use YAML-in-Markdown structure with activation instructions, personas, and command systems
- Character Consistency: Every agent must have a persistent persona with name, communication style, and numbered options protocol similar to
expansion-packs/bmad-2d-phaser-game-dev/agents/game-designer.md - Custom Themed Orchestrator: The orchestrator should embody the domain theme (e.g., Office Manager for medical, Project Lead for tech) for better user experience
- Core Utilities Required: ALWAYS include these core files in every expansion pack:
tasks/create-doc.md- Document creation from templatestasks/execute-checklist.md- Checklist validationutils/template-format.md- Template markup conventionsutils/workflow-management.md- Workflow orchestration
- Team and Workflow Requirements: If pack has >1 agent, MUST include:
- At least one team configuration in
expansion-packs/{new-expansion}/agent-teams/ - At least one workflow in
expansion-packs/{new-expansion}workflows/
- At least one team configuration in
- Template Sophistication: Implement LLM instruction embedding with
[[LLM: guidance]], conditional content, and variable systems - Workflow Orchestration: Include decision trees, handoff protocols, and validation loops
- Quality Assurance Integration: Multi-level checklists with star ratings and ready/not-ready frameworks
- Verify All References: Any task, template, or data file referenced in an agent MUST exist in the pack
- Knowledge Base Integration: Organize domain-specific data and embed best practices
- Dependency Management: Clear manifest with file mappings and core agent dependencies
Process Overview
Phase 1: Discovery and Planning
1.1 Define the Domain
Ask the user:
- Pack Name: Short identifier (e.g.,
healthcare,fintech,gamedev) - Display Name: Full name (e.g., "Healthcare Compliance Pack")
- Description: What domain or industry does this serve?
- Key Problems: What specific challenges will this pack solve?
- Target Users: Who will benefit from this expansion?
1.2 Gather Examples and Domain Intelligence
Request from the user:
- Sample Documents: Any existing documents in this domain
- Workflow Examples: How work currently flows in this domain
- Compliance Needs: Any regulatory or standards requirements
- Output Examples: What final deliverables look like
- Character Personas: What specialist roles exist (names, communication styles, expertise areas)
- Domain Language: Specific terminology, jargon, and communication patterns
- Quality Standards: Performance targets, success criteria, and validation requirements
- Data Requirements: What reference data files users will need to provide
- Technology Stack: Specific tools, frameworks, or platforms used in this domain
- Common Pitfalls: Frequent mistakes or challenges in this domain
1.3 Create Planning Document
IMPORTANT: STOP HERE AND CREATE PLAN FIRST
Create expansion-packs/{pack-name}/plan.md with:
# {Pack Name} Expansion Pack Plan
## Overview
- Pack Name: {name}
- Description: {description}
- Target Domain: {domain}
## Components to Create
### Agents (with Character Personas)
- [ ] {pack-name}-orchestrator (REQUIRED: Custom BMAD orchestrator)
- Character Name: {human-name}
- Communication Style: {style}
- Key Commands: {command-list}
- [ ] {agent-1-name}
- Character Name: {human-name}
- Expertise: {domain-expertise}
- Persona: {personality-traits}
- [ ] {agent-2-name}
- Character Name: {human-name}
- Expertise: {domain-expertise}
- Persona: {personality-traits}
- [ ] {agent-N-name}
- Character Name: {human-name}
- Expertise: {domain-expertise}
- Persona: {personality-traits}
### Tasks
- [ ] {task-1} (referenced by: {agent})
- [ ] {task-2} (referenced by: {agent})
### Templates (with LLM Instruction Embedding)
- [ ] {template-1} (used by: {agent/task})
- LLM Instructions: {guidance-type}
- Conditional Content: {conditions}
- Variables: {variable-list}
- [ ] {template-2} (used by: {agent/task})
- LLM Instructions: {guidance-type}
- Conditional Content: {conditions}
- Variables: {variable-list}
### Checklists (Multi-Level Quality Assurance)
- [ ] {checklist-1}
- Validation Level: {basic/comprehensive/expert}
- Rating System: {star-ratings/binary}
- Success Criteria: {specific-requirements}
- [ ] {checklist-2}
- Validation Level: {basic/comprehensive/expert}
- Rating System: {star-ratings/binary}
- Success Criteria: {specific-requirements}
### Data Files and Knowledge Base
**Required from User:**
- [ ] {filename}.{ext} - {description of content needed}
- [ ] {filename2}.{ext} - {description of content needed}
**Domain Knowledge to Embed:**
- [ ] {domain}-best-practices.md - {description}
- [ ] {domain}-terminology.md - {description}
- [ ] {domain}-standards.md - {description}
**Workflow Orchestration:**
- [ ] Decision trees for {workflow-name}
- [ ] Handoff protocols between agents
- [ ] Validation loops and iteration patterns
## Approval
User approval received: [ ] Yes
Important: Wait for user approval before proceeding to Phase 2
Phase 2: Component Design
2.1 Create Orchestrator Agent with Domain-Themed Character
FIRST PRIORITY: Design the custom BMAD orchestrator with domain-appropriate theme:
Themed Character Design:
- Human Name: {first-name} {last-name} (e.g., "Dr. Sarah Chen" for medical office manager)
- Domain-Specific Role: Match the orchestrator to the domain context:
- Medical: "Office Manager" or "Practice Coordinator"
- Legal: "Senior Partner" or "Case Manager"
- Tech Startup: "Project Lead" or "Scrum Master"
- Education: "Department Chair" or "Program Director"
- Character Identity: Professional background matching the domain theme
- Communication Style: Appropriate to the role (professional medical, formal legal, agile tech)
- Domain Authority: Natural leadership position in the field's hierarchy
Command Architecture:
- Numbered Options Protocol: All interactions use numbered lists for user selection
- Domain-Specific Commands: Specialized orchestration commands for the field
- Help System: Built-in command discovery and guidance
- Handoff Protocols: Structured transitions to specialist agents
Technical Structure:
- Activation Instructions: Embedded YAML with behavior directives
- Startup Procedures: Initialize without auto-execution
- Dependencies: Clear references to tasks, templates, and data files
- Integration Points: How it coordinates with core BMAD agents
2.2 Design Specialist Agents with Character Personas
For each additional agent, develop comprehensive character design:
Character Development:
- Human Identity: Full name, background, professional history
- Personality Traits: Communication style, work approach, quirks
- Domain Expertise: Specific knowledge areas and experience level
- Professional Role: Exact job title and responsibilities
- Interaction Style: How they communicate with users and other agents
Technical Architecture:
- YAML-in-Markdown Structure: Embedded activation instructions
- Command System: Numbered options protocol implementation
- Startup Behavior: Prevent auto-execution, await user direction
- Unique Value Proposition: What specialized capabilities they provide
Dependencies and Integration:
- Required Tasks: List ALL tasks this agent references (must exist)
- Required Templates: List ALL templates this agent uses (must exist)
- Required Data: List ALL data files this agent needs (must be documented)
- Handoff Protocols: How they interact with orchestrator and other agents
- Quality Integration: Which checklists they use for validation
2.3 Design Specialized Tasks
For each task:
- Purpose: What specific action does it enable?
- Inputs: What information is needed?
- Process: Step-by-step instructions
- Outputs: What gets produced?
- Agent Usage: Which agents will use this task?
2.4 Create Advanced Document Templates with LLM Instruction Embedding
For each template, implement sophisticated AI guidance systems:
LLM Instruction Patterns:
- Step-by-Step Guidance:
[[LLM: Present this section first, get user feedback, then proceed.]] - Conditional Logic:
^^CONDITION: condition_name^^content^^/CONDITION: condition_name^^ - Variable Systems:
{{variable_placeholder}}for dynamic content insertion - Iteration Controls:
<<REPEAT section="name" count="variable">>for repeatable blocks - User Feedback Loops: Built-in validation and refinement points
Template Architecture:
- Document Type: Specific deliverable and its purpose
- Structure: Logical section organization with embedded instructions
- Elicitation Triggers: Advanced questioning techniques for content gathering
- Domain Standards: Industry-specific format and compliance requirements
- Quality Markers: Success criteria and validation checkpoints
Content Design:
- Example Content: Sample text to guide completion
- Required vs Optional: Clear marking of mandatory sections
- Domain Terminology: Proper use of field-specific language
- Cross-References: Links to related templates and checklists
2.5 Design Multi-Level Quality Assurance Systems
For each checklist, implement comprehensive validation frameworks:
Quality Assessment Levels:
- Basic Validation: Essential completeness checks
- Comprehensive Review: Detailed quality and accuracy verification
- Expert Assessment: Advanced domain-specific evaluation criteria
Rating Systems:
- Star Ratings: 1-5 star quality assessments for nuanced evaluation
- Binary Decisions: Ready/Not Ready determinations with clear criteria
- Improvement Recommendations: Specific guidance for addressing deficiencies
- Next Steps: Clear direction for proceeding or iterating
Checklist Architecture:
- Purpose Definition: Specific quality aspects being verified
- Usage Context: When and by whom the checklist should be applied
- Validation Items: Specific, measurable criteria to evaluate
- Success Criteria: Clear standards for pass/fail determinations
- Domain Standards: Industry-specific requirements and best practices
- Integration Points: How checklists connect to agents and workflows
Phase 3: Implementation
IMPORTANT: Only proceed after plan.md is approved
3.1 Create Directory Structure
expansion-packs/
└── {pack-name}/
├── plan.md (ALREADY CREATED)
├── manifest.yml
├── README.md
├── agents/
│ ├── {pack-name}-orchestrator.md (REQUIRED - Custom themed orchestrator)
│ └── {agent-id}.md (YAML-in-Markdown with persona)
├── data/
│ ├── {domain}-best-practices.md
│ ├── {domain}-terminology.md
│ └── {domain}-standards.md
├── tasks/
│ ├── create-doc.md (REQUIRED - Core utility)
│ ├── execute-checklist.md (REQUIRED - Core utility)
│ └── {task-name}.md (Domain-specific tasks)
├── utils/
│ ├── template-format.md (REQUIRED - Core utility)
│ └── workflow-management.md (REQUIRED - Core utility)
├── templates/
│ └── {template-name}.md
├── checklists/
│ └── {checklist-name}.md
├── workflows/
│ └── {domain}-workflow.md (REQUIRED if multiple agents)
└── agent-teams/
└── {domain}-team.yml (REQUIRED if multiple agents)
3.2 Create Manifest
Create manifest.yml:
name: {pack-name}
version: 1.0.0
description: >-
{Detailed description of the expansion pack}
author: {Your name or organization}
bmad_version: "4.0.0"
# Files to create in the expansion pack
files:
agents:
- {pack-name}-orchestrator.md # Domain-themed orchestrator (e.g., Office Manager)
- {agent-name}.md # YAML-in-Markdown with character persona
data:
- {domain}-best-practices.md # Domain knowledge and standards
- {domain}-terminology.md # Field-specific language and concepts
- {domain}-standards.md # Quality and compliance requirements
tasks:
# Core utilities (REQUIRED - copy from bmad-core)
- create-doc.md # Document creation from templates
- execute-checklist.md # Checklist validation system
# Domain-specific tasks
- {task-name}.md # Custom procedures with quality integration
utils:
# Core utilities (REQUIRED - copy from bmad-core)
- template-format.md # Template markup conventions
- workflow-management.md # Workflow orchestration system
templates:
- {template-name}.md # LLM instruction embedding with conditionals
checklists:
- {checklist-name}.md # Multi-level quality assurance systems
workflows:
- {domain}-workflow.md # REQUIRED if multiple agents - decision trees
agent-teams:
- {domain}-team.yml # REQUIRED if multiple agents - team config
# Data files users must provide (in their bmad-core/data/ directory)
required_user_data:
- filename: {data-file}.{ext}
description: {What this file should contain}
format: {specific format requirements}
example: {sample content or structure}
validation: {how to verify correctness}
# Knowledge base files embedded in expansion pack
embedded_knowledge:
- {domain}-best-practices.md
- {domain}-terminology.md
- {domain}-standards.md
# Dependencies on core BMAD components
core_dependencies:
agents:
- architect # For system design
- developer # For implementation
- qa-specialist # For quality assurance
tasks:
- {core-task-name}
workflows:
- {core-workflow-name}
# Agent interaction patterns
agent_coordination:
orchestrator: {pack-name}-orchestrator
handoff_protocols: true
numbered_options: true
quality_integration: comprehensive
# Post-install message
post_install_message: |
{Pack Name} expansion pack ready!
🎯 ORCHESTRATOR: {Character Name} ({pack-name}-orchestrator)
📋 AGENTS: {agent-count} specialized domain experts
📝 TEMPLATES: {template-count} with LLM instruction embedding
✅ QUALITY: Multi-level validation with star ratings
REQUIRED USER DATA FILES (place in bmad-core/data/):
- {data-file}.{ext}: {description and format}
- {data-file-2}.{ext}: {description and format}
QUICK START:
1. Add required data files to bmad-core/data/
2. Run: npm run agent {pack-name}-orchestrator
3. Follow {Character Name}'s numbered options
EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE:
- Domain best practices and terminology
- Quality standards and validation criteria
- Workflow orchestration with handoff protocols
Phase 4: Content Creation
IMPORTANT: Work through plan.md checklist systematically!
4.1 Create Orchestrator First with Domain-Themed Character
Step 1: Domain-Themed Character Design
- Define character persona matching the domain context:
- Medical: "Dr. Emily Rodriguez, Practice Manager"
- Legal: "Robert Sterling, Senior Partner"
- Tech: "Alex Chen, Agile Project Lead"
- Education: "Professor Maria Santos, Department Chair"
- Make the orchestrator feel like a natural leader in that domain
- Establish communication style matching professional norms
- Design numbered options protocol themed to the domain
- Create command system with domain-specific terminology
Step 2: Copy Core Utilities
Before proceeding, copy these essential files from common:
# Copy core task utilities
cp common/tasks/create-doc.md expansion-packs/{pack-name}/tasks/
cp common/tasks/execute-checklist.md expansion-packs/{pack-name}/tasks/
# Copy core utility files
mkdir -p expansion-packs/{pack-name}/utils
cp common/utils/template-format.md expansion-packs/{pack-name}/utils/
cp common/utils/workflow-management.md expansion-packs/{pack-name}/utils/
Step 3: Technical Implementation
-
Create
agents/{pack-name}-orchestrator.mdwith YAML-in-Markdown structure:activation-instructions: - Follow all instructions in this file - Stay in character as {Character Name} until exit - Use numbered options protocol for all interactions agent: name: {Character Name} id: {pack-name}-orchestrator title: {Professional Title} icon: {emoji} whenToUse: {clear usage guidance} persona: role: {specific professional role} style: {communication approach} identity: {character background} focus: {primary expertise area} core_principles: - {principle 1} - {principle 2} startup: - {initialization steps} - CRITICAL: Do NOT auto-execute commands: - {command descriptions with numbers} dependencies: tasks: {required task list} templates: {required template list} checklists: {quality checklist list}
Step 4: Workflow and Team Integration
- Design decision trees for workflow branching
- Create handoff protocols to specialist agents
- Implement validation loops and quality checkpoints
- If multiple agents: Create team configuration in
agent-teams/{domain}-team.yml - If multiple agents: Create workflow in
workflows/{domain}-workflow.md - Ensure orchestrator references workflow-management utility
- Verify ALL referenced tasks exist (including core utilities)
- Verify ALL referenced templates exist
- Document data file requirements
4.2 Specialist Agent Creation with Character Development
For each additional agent, follow comprehensive character development:
Character Architecture:
- Design complete persona with human name, background, and personality
- Define communication style and professional quirks
- Establish domain expertise and unique value proposition
- Create numbered options protocol for interactions
Technical Implementation:
- Create
agents/{agent-id}.mdwith YAML-in-Markdown structure - Embed activation instructions and startup procedures
- Define command system with domain-specific options
- Document dependencies on tasks, templates, and data
Quality Assurance:
- STOP - Verify all referenced tasks/templates exist
- Create any missing tasks/templates immediately
- Test handoff protocols with orchestrator
- Validate checklist integration
- Mark agent as complete in plan.md
Agent Interaction Design:
- Define how agent receives handoffs from orchestrator
- Specify how agent communicates progress and results
- Design transition protocols to other agents or back to orchestrator
- Implement quality validation before handoff completion
4.3 Advanced Task Creation with Quality Integration
Each task should implement sophisticated procedure design:
Core Structure:
- Clear, single purpose with measurable outcomes
- Step-by-step instructions with decision points
- Prerequisites and validation requirements
- Quality assurance integration points
- Success criteria and completion validation
Content Design:
- Domain-specific procedures and best practices
- Risk mitigation strategies and common pitfalls
- Integration with checklists and quality systems
- Handoff protocols and communication templates
- Examples and sample outputs
Reusability Patterns:
- Modular design for use across multiple agents
- Parameterized procedures for different contexts
- Clear dependency documentation
- Cross-reference to related tasks and templates
- Version control and update procedures
4.4 Advanced Template Design with LLM Instruction Embedding
Templates should implement sophisticated AI guidance systems:
LLM Instruction Patterns:
- Step-by-Step Guidance:
[[LLM: Present this section first, gather user input, then proceed to next section.]] - Conditional Content:
^^CONDITION: project_type == "complex"^^advanced content^^/CONDITION: project_type^^ - Dynamic Variables:
{{project_name}},{{stakeholder_list}},{{technical_requirements}} - Iteration Controls:
<<REPEAT section="stakeholder" count="{{stakeholder_count}}">>repeatable blocks<</REPEAT>> - User Feedback Loops: Built-in validation and refinement prompts
Content Architecture:
- Progressive disclosure with guided completion
- Domain-specific terminology and standards
- Quality markers and success criteria
- Cross-references to checklists and validation tools
- Advanced elicitation techniques for comprehensive content gathering
Template Intelligence:
- Adaptive content based on project complexity or type
- Intelligent placeholder replacement with context awareness
- Validation triggers for completeness and quality
- Integration with quality assurance checklists
- Export and formatting options for different use cases
Phase 5: Workflow Orchestration and Quality Systems
5.1 Create Workflow Orchestration
Decision Tree Design:
- Map primary workflow paths and decision points
- Create branching logic for different project types or complexity levels
- Design conditional workflow sections using
^^CONDITION:^^syntax - Include visual flowcharts using Mermaid diagrams
Handoff Protocol Implementation:
- Define explicit handoff prompts between agents
- Create success criteria for each workflow phase
- Implement validation loops and iteration patterns
- Design story development guidance for complex implementations
Workflow File Structure:
# {Domain} Primary Workflow
## Decision Tree
[Mermaid flowchart]
## Workflow Paths
### Path 1: {scenario-name}
^^CONDITION: condition_name^^
[Workflow steps with agent handoffs]
^^/CONDITION: condition_name^^
### Path 2: {scenario-name}
[Alternative workflow steps]
## Quality Gates
[Validation checkpoints throughout workflow]
Phase 6: Verification and Documentation
6.1 Comprehensive Verification System
Before declaring complete:
Character and Persona Validation:
- All agents have complete character personas with names and backgrounds
- Communication styles are consistent and domain-appropriate
- Numbered options protocol implemented across all agents
- Command systems are comprehensive with help functionality
Technical Architecture Validation:
- All agents use YAML-in-Markdown structure with activation instructions
- Startup procedures prevent auto-execution
- All agent references validated (tasks, templates, data)
- Handoff protocols tested between agents
Template and Quality System Validation:
- Templates include LLM instruction embedding
- Conditional content and variable systems implemented
- Multi-level quality assurance checklists created
- Star rating and ready/not-ready systems functional
Workflow and Integration Validation:
- Decision trees and workflow orchestration complete
- Knowledge base files embedded (best practices, terminology, standards)
- Manifest.yml reflects all components and dependencies
- All items in plan.md marked complete
- No orphaned tasks or templates
6.2 Create Comprehensive Documentation
README Structure with Character Introduction:
# {Pack Name} Expansion Pack
## Meet Your {Domain} Team
### 🎯 {Character Name} - {Pack Name} Orchestrator
_{Professional background and expertise}_
{Character Name} is your {domain} project coordinator who will guide you through the complete {domain} development process using numbered options and structured workflows.
### 💼 Specialist Agents
- **{Agent 1 Name}** - {Role and expertise}
- **{Agent 2 Name}** - {Role and expertise}
## Quick Start
1. **Prepare Data Files** (place in `bmad-core/data/`):
- `{file1}.{ext}` - {description}
- `{file2}.{ext}` - {description}
2. **Launch Orchestrator**:
npm run agent {pack-name}-orchestrator
3. **Follow Numbered Options**: {Character Name} will present numbered choices for each decision
4. **Quality Assurance**: Multi-level validation with star ratings ensures excellence
## Advanced Features
- **LLM Template System**: Intelligent document generation with conditional content
- **Workflow Orchestration**: Decision trees and handoff protocols
- **Character Consistency**: Persistent personas across all interactions
- **Quality Integration**: Comprehensive validation at every step
## Components
### Agents ({agent-count})
[List with character names and roles]
### Templates ({template-count})
[List with LLM instruction features]
### Quality Systems
[List checklists and validation tools]
### Knowledge Base
[Embedded domain expertise]
6.3 Advanced Data File Documentation with Validation
For each required data file, provide comprehensive guidance:
Required User Data Files
{filename}.{ext}
- Purpose: {why this file is needed by which agents}
- Format: {specific file format and structure requirements}
- Location: Place in
bmad-core/data/ - Validation: {how agents will verify the file is correct}
- Example Structure:
{sample content showing exact format}
- **Common Mistakes**: {frequent errors and how to avoid them}
- **Quality Criteria**: {what makes this file high-quality}
### Integration Notes
- **Used By**: {list of agents that reference this file}
- **Frequency**: {how often the file is accessed}
- **Updates**: {when and how to update the file}
- **Validation Commands**: {any CLI commands to verify file correctness}
Embedded Knowledge Base
The expansion pack includes comprehensive domain knowledge:
- {domain}-best-practices.md: Industry standards and proven methodologies
- {domain}-terminology.md: Field-specific language and concept definitions
- {domain}-standards.md: Quality criteria and compliance requirements
These files are automatically available to all agents and don't require user setup.
Example: Healthcare Expansion Pack with Advanced Architecture
healthcare/
├── plan.md (Created first for approval)
├── manifest.yml (with dependency mapping and character descriptions)
├── README.md (featuring character introductions and numbered options)
├── agents/
│ ├── healthcare-orchestrator.md (Dr. Sarah Chen - YAML-in-Markdown)
│ ├── clinical-analyst.md (Marcus Rivera - Research Specialist)
│ └── compliance-officer.md (Jennifer Walsh - Regulatory Expert)
├── data/
│ ├── healthcare-best-practices.md (embedded domain knowledge)
│ ├── healthcare-terminology.md (medical language and concepts)
│ └── healthcare-standards.md (HIPAA, FDA, clinical trial requirements)
├── tasks/
│ ├── hipaa-assessment.md (with quality integration and checklists)
│ ├── clinical-protocol-review.md (multi-step validation process)
│ └── patient-data-analysis.md (statistical analysis with safety checks)
├── templates/
│ ├── clinical-trial-protocol.md (LLM instructions with conditionals)
│ ├── hipaa-compliance-report.md ({{variables}} and validation triggers)
│ └── patient-outcome-report.md (star rating system integration)
├── checklists/
│ ├── hipaa-checklist.md (multi-level: basic/comprehensive/expert)
│ ├── clinical-data-quality.md (star ratings with improvement recommendations)
│ └── regulatory-compliance.md (ready/not-ready with next steps)
├── workflows/
│ ├── clinical-trial-workflow.md (decision trees with Mermaid diagrams)
│ └── compliance-audit-workflow.md (handoff protocols and quality gates)
└── agent-teams/
└── healthcare-team.yml (coordinated team configurations)
Required user data files (bmad-core/data/):
- medical-terminology.md (institution-specific terms and abbreviations)
- hipaa-requirements.md (organization's specific compliance requirements)
- clinical-protocols.md (standard operating procedures and guidelines)
Embedded knowledge (automatic):
- Healthcare best practices and proven methodologies
- Medical terminology and concept definitions
- Regulatory standards (HIPAA, FDA, GCP) and compliance requirements
Character Examples from Healthcare Pack
Dr. Sarah Chen - Healthcare Practice Manager (Orchestrator)
- Domain Role: Medical Office Manager with clinical background
- Background: 15 years clinical research, MD/PhD, practice management expertise
- Style: Professional medical demeanor, uses numbered options, explains workflows clearly
- Commands: Patient flow management, clinical trial coordination, staff scheduling, compliance oversight
- Theme Integration: Acts as the central coordinator a patient would expect in a medical practice
Marcus Rivera - Clinical Data Analyst
- Background: Biostatistician, clinical trials methodology, data integrity specialist
- Style: Detail-oriented, methodical, uses statistical terminology appropriately
- Commands: Statistical analysis, data validation, outcome measurement, safety monitoring
Jennifer Walsh - Regulatory Compliance Officer
- Background: Former FDA reviewer, 20 years regulatory affairs, compliance auditing
- Style: Thorough, systematic, risk-focused, uses regulatory language precisely
- Commands: Compliance audit, regulatory filing, risk assessment, documentation review
Advanced Interactive Questions Flow
Initial Discovery and Character Development
- "What domain or industry will this expansion pack serve?"
- "What are the main challenges or workflows in this domain?"
- "Do you have any example documents or outputs? (Please share)"
- "What specialized roles/experts exist in this domain? (I need to create character personas for each)"
- "For each specialist role, what would be an appropriate professional name and background?"
- "What communication style would each character use? (formal, casual, technical, etc.)"
- "What reference data will users need to provide?"
- "What domain-specific knowledge should be embedded in the expansion pack?"
- "What quality standards or compliance requirements exist in this field?"
- "What are the typical workflow decision points where users need guidance?"
Planning Phase
- "Here's the proposed plan. Please review and approve before we continue."
Orchestrator Character and Command Design
- "What natural leadership role exists in {domain}? (e.g., Office Manager, Project Lead, Department Head)"
- "What should the orchestrator character's name and professional background be to match this role?"
- "What communication style fits this domain role? (medical professional, legal formal, tech agile)"
- "What domain-specific commands should the orchestrator support using numbered options?"
- "How many specialist agents will this pack include? (determines if team/workflow required)"
- "What's the typical workflow from start to finish, including decision points?"
- "Where in the workflow should users choose between different paths?"
- "How should the orchestrator hand off to specialist agents?"
- "What quality gates should be built into the workflow?"
- "How should it integrate with core BMAD agents?"
Agent Planning
- "For agent '{name}', what is their specific expertise?"
- "What tasks will this agent reference? (I'll create them)"
- "What templates will this agent use? (I'll create them)"
- "What data files will this agent need? (You'll provide these)"
Task Design
- "Describe the '{task}' process step-by-step"
- "What information is needed to complete this task?"
- "What should the output look like?"
Template Creation
- "What sections should the '{template}' document have?"
- "Are there any required formats or standards?"
- "Can you provide an example of a completed document?"
Data Requirements
- "For {data-file}, what information should it contain?"
- "What format should this data be in?"
- "Can you provide a sample?"
Critical Advanced Considerations
Character and Persona Architecture:
- Character Consistency: Every agent needs a persistent human persona with name, background, and communication style
- Numbered Options Protocol: ALL agent interactions must use numbered lists for user selections
- Professional Authenticity: Characters should reflect realistic expertise and communication patterns for their domain
Technical Architecture Requirements:
- YAML-in-Markdown Structure: All agents must use embedded activation instructions and configuration
- LLM Template Intelligence: Templates need instruction embedding with conditionals and variables
- Quality Integration: Multi-level validation systems with star ratings and ready/not-ready frameworks
Workflow and Orchestration:
- Decision Trees: Workflows must include branching logic and conditional paths
- Handoff Protocols: Explicit procedures for agent-to-agent transitions
- Knowledge Base Embedding: Domain expertise must be built into the pack, not just referenced
Quality and Validation:
- Plan First: ALWAYS create and get approval for plan.md before implementing
- Orchestrator Required: Every pack MUST have a custom BMAD orchestrator with sophisticated command system
- Verify References: ALL referenced tasks/templates MUST exist and be tested
- Multi-Level Validation: Quality systems must provide basic, comprehensive, and expert-level assessment
- Domain Expertise: Ensure accuracy in specialized fields with embedded best practices
- Compliance Integration: Include necessary regulatory requirements as embedded knowledge
Advanced Success Strategies
Character Development Excellence:
- Create Believable Personas: Each agent should feel like a real professional with authentic expertise
- Maintain Communication Consistency: Character voices should remain consistent across all interactions
- Design Professional Relationships: Show how characters work together and hand off responsibilities
Technical Implementation Excellence:
- Plan Thoroughly: The plan.md prevents missing components and ensures character consistency
- Build Orchestrator First: It defines the overall workflow and establishes the primary character voice
- Implement Template Intelligence: Use LLM instruction embedding for sophisticated document generation
- Create Quality Integration: Every task should connect to validation checklists and quality systems
Workflow and Quality Excellence:
- Design Decision Trees: Map out all workflow branching points and conditional paths
- Test Handoff Protocols: Ensure smooth transitions between agents with clear success criteria
- Embed Domain Knowledge: Include best practices, terminology, and standards as built-in knowledge
- Validate Continuously: Check off items in plan.md and test all references throughout development
- Document Comprehensively: Users need clear instructions for data files, character introductions, and quality expectations
Advanced Mistakes to Avoid
Character and Persona Mistakes:
- Generic Orchestrator: Creating a bland orchestrator instead of domain-themed character (e.g., "Orchestrator" vs "Office Manager")
- Generic Characters: Creating agents without distinct personalities, names, or communication styles
- Inconsistent Voices: Characters that sound the same or change personality mid-conversation
- Missing Professional Context: Agents without believable expertise or domain authority
- No Numbered Options: Failing to implement the numbered selection protocol
Technical Architecture Mistakes:
- Missing Core Utilities: Not including create-doc.md, execute-checklist.md, template-format.md, workflow-management.md
- Simple Agent Structure: Using basic YAML instead of YAML-in-Markdown with embedded instructions
- Basic Templates: Creating simple templates without LLM instruction embedding or conditional content
- Missing Quality Integration: Templates and tasks that don't connect to validation systems
- Weak Command Systems: Orchestrators without sophisticated command interfaces and help systems
- Missing Team/Workflow: Not creating team and workflow files when pack has multiple agents
Workflow and Content Mistakes:
- Linear Workflows: Creating workflows without decision trees or branching logic
- Missing Handoff Protocols: Agents that don't properly transition work to each other
- External Dependencies: Requiring users to provide knowledge that should be embedded in the pack
- Orphaned References: Agent references task that doesn't exist
- Unclear Data Needs: Not specifying required user data files with validation criteria
- Skipping Plan: Going straight to implementation without comprehensive planning
- Generic Orchestrator: Not making the orchestrator domain-specific with appropriate character and commands
Advanced Completion Checklist
Character and Persona Completion:
- All agents have complete character development (names, backgrounds, communication styles)
- Numbered options protocol implemented across all agent interactions
- Character consistency maintained throughout all content
- Professional authenticity verified for domain expertise
Technical Architecture Completion:
- All agents use YAML-in-Markdown structure with activation instructions
- Orchestrator has domain-themed character (not generic)
- Core utilities copied: create-doc.md, execute-checklist.md, template-format.md, workflow-management.md
- Templates include LLM instruction embedding with conditionals and variables
- Multi-level quality assurance systems implemented (basic/comprehensive/expert)
- Command systems include help functionality and domain-specific options
- Team configuration created if multiple agents
- Workflow created if multiple agents
Workflow and Quality Completion:
- Decision trees and workflow branching implemented
- Workflow file created if pack has multiple agents
- Team configuration created if pack has multiple agents
- Handoff protocols tested between all agents
- Knowledge base embedded (best practices, terminology, standards)
- Quality integration connects tasks to checklists and validation
- Core utilities properly referenced in agent dependencies
Standard Completion Verification:
- plan.md created and approved with character details
- All plan.md items checked off including persona development
- Orchestrator agent created with sophisticated character and command system
- All agent references verified (tasks, templates, data, checklists)
- Data requirements documented with validation criteria and examples
- README includes character introductions and numbered options explanation
- manifest.yml reflects actual files with dependency mapping and character descriptions
Advanced Quality Gates:
- Star rating systems functional in quality checklists
- Ready/not-ready decision frameworks implemented
- Template conditional content tested with different scenarios
- Workflow decision trees validated with sample use cases
- Character interactions tested for consistency and professional authenticity