Planning Documents FAQ
Quick answers to common questions about planning documents in the BMad Method.
Questions
Section titled “Questions”Why no tech-spec at Level 2+?
Section titled “Why no tech-spec at Level 2+?”Level 2+ projects need product-level planning (PRD) and system-level design (Architecture), which tech-spec doesn’t provide. Tech-spec is too narrow for coordinating multiple features. Instead, Level 2-4 uses:
- PRD (product vision, functional requirements, non-functional requirements)
- Architecture (system design)
- Epics+Stories (created AFTER architecture is complete)
Do I need a PRD for a bug fix?
Section titled “Do I need a PRD for a bug fix?”No! Bug fixes are typically Level 0 (single atomic change). Use Quick Spec Flow:
- Load PM agent
- Run tech-spec workflow
- Implement immediately
PRDs are for Level 2-4 projects with multiple features requiring product-level coordination.
Can I skip the product brief?
Section titled “Can I skip the product brief?”Yes, product brief is always optional. It’s most valuable for:
- Level 3-4 projects needing strategic direction
- Projects with stakeholders requiring alignment
- Novel products needing market research
- When you want to explore solution space before committing
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