AI-Driven Development Frameworks You Should Know
Shubham
Developer
AI-Driven Development Frameworks You Should Know
We all know about software development models like Agile or Waterfall. Even for side projects, what do we usually do? Plan → make to-dos → implement.
But now, AI has entered this space with its own development frameworks. Instead of just throwing prompts at an LLM and hoping for the best, these frameworks bring structure and discipline to AI coding.
Here are three that really stood out: BMAD-METHOD, Spec Kit, and OpenSpec.
1. BMAD-METHOD
What is it?
BMAD stands for Breakthrough Method for Agile AI-Driven Development.
The idea is simple: assign different roles to AI agents — Analyst, Project Manager, Architect, Developer, and QA — so they work together like a real dev team. This way, you don’t just get random code; you get planned, architected, and tested output.
GitHub: BMAD-METHOD Repository
How to use it (Quick Start):
git clone https://github.com/bmad-code-org/BMAD-METHOD.git
cd BMAD-METHOD
npm install
npm run startThen follow the workflow:
- Analyst/PM agents create the Product Requirements Doc (PRD).
- Architect agent defines structure.
- Developer agent implements based on context.
- QA agent reviews.
Best For:
- Larger projects where structure matters
- When you want multiple AI agents simulating a dev team
2. Spec Kit
What is it?
Spec Kit focuses on Spec-Driven Development. Instead of vague prompts, you first write a clear specification (what you want, why you want it). Then you plan, break tasks, and finally let the AI generate the code.
It also provides CLI commands for each step like /specify, /plan, /tasks, /implement.
GitHub: Spec Kit Repository
How to use it (Quick Start):
uvx --from git+https://github.com/github/spec-kit.git specify init my-projectThen run commands step by step:
/specify→ define your feature/plan→ create implementation plan/tasks→ break into smaller units/implement→ let AI handle coding
Best For:
- Medium to large projects
- Developers who want clarity and structure before coding
3. OpenSpec
What is it?
OpenSpec is a lighter alternative to Spec Kit. It focuses on writing specs and managing changes. If you update requirements, OpenSpec ensures your AI assistants don’t get confused with outdated prompts.
GitHub: OpenSpec Repository
How to use it (Quick Start):
- Write a spec file describing your feature.
- Track changes inside the spec folder.
- Use AI to implement based on the latest spec version.
Best For:
- Developers who want a lightweight solution
- Teams already following a process and just need AI alignment
Comparison
| Framework | Approach | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMAD-METHOD | Multi-agent Agile dev | Structured, role-based, end-to-end workflow | More setup, overhead for small projects | Larger apps, full dev lifecycles |
| Spec Kit | Spec-driven development | Clear process (spec → plan → tasks → code) | Can feel heavy for quick prototypes | Medium to large projects |
| OpenSpec | Lightweight spec focus | Simple, flexible, easy to integrate | Fewer features compared to BMAD/Spec Kit | Lightweight or existing workflows |
Which One Should You Use?
- BMAD-METHOD: If you want to simulate a full dev team with AI agents and need structure for big projects.
- Spec Kit: If you prefer a spec-first approach and want clarity before diving into coding.
- OpenSpec: If you want a lightweight way to manage specs and changes without heavy overhead.
Final Thoughts
These frameworks are not just “toys.” They’re attempts to bring discipline, clarity, and team-like workflows into AI-driven coding.
If you’re working on a quick prototype, maybe you don’t need them. But if you’re building something bigger and want AI to act like a real development partner, these frameworks are worth exploring.