# Working in this repository

Read [the design](docs/design.md) and [current work](docs/current-work.md) before
continuing the foundation pass. [README.md](README.md) maps configuration owners
and maintenance entry points. Global instructions remain applicable.

- Keep design discussion and shared decisions in the main conversation. Discuss
  two to four related choices with evidence, a recommendation, and alternatives.
  Ask before changes to architecture, terminology, ownership, dependencies,
  persistent data, user-visible behavior, or durable workflows. Implement routine
  consequences of an accepted batch without repeated confirmation.
- Use subagents only for bounded, independent work when coverage or context benefits
  justify it. No fixed team or delegation pattern is required.
- The pass covers existing or clearly intended capabilities. Consult relevant parts
  of `~/sync/notes/setup-todo.md` as evidence, not authorization or a backlog.
  Do not edit that note without an explicit request.
- Preserve unrelated changes. Coherent local commits are allowed for agreed batches.
  Do not push or make other remote changes without explicit approval. System
  activation remains user-owned.
- Do not read secret values for discovery, source the workbench credential-loading
  environment, or access live company systems with write authority. Test writes need
  task-specific authority. Moving credentials or synchronizing company content
  requires agreement; ordinary repository work does not authorize either.
- Follow the user's testing policy: automated tests only when explicitly requested
  or covered by an established repository policy. A test file alone does not establish
  a general policy. Use the smallest relevant review, build, or manual check.
- Use `just validate` for a completed configuration batch, or name affected hosts
  for iteration. Read the short result first; inspect saved logs only for failures
  or a concrete unresolved concern. Documentation-only edits need no system build.
- Replace superseded state in `docs/current-work.md`; keep durable rationale in
  `docs/design.md` and operational detail beside its owner. Use Git for chronology.
  Remove temporary state when it no longer serves a purpose.
- Do not declare the pass complete unilaterally. Present the resulting model,
  changes, evidence, and deferrals, and ask whether another area needs attention.