/metis-decompose

Metis Decompose - Initiative to Tasks

Step 1: Verify Initiative Exists

BEFORE starting the Ralph loop, you MUST verify the initiative exists.

Parse the SHORT_CODE from: $ARGUMENTS

Use mcp__metis__read_document to verify the initiative exists:

• project_path: Auto-detect by finding .metis directory (usually $PWD/.metis or parent)
• short_code: The SHORT_CODE from arguments (e.g., PROJ-I-0001)

If the document is NOT found (error response):

• Do NOT proceed with the loop
• Tell the user: "Initiative {SHORT_CODE} was not found. Please verify the short code is correct using mcp__metis__list_documents."
• Stop here

If the document IS found, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Initialize Loop

Only after successful verification, execute the setup script:

"${CLAUDE_PLUGIN_ROOT}/scripts/setup-metis-decompose.sh" $ARGUMENTS

Step 3: Decompose Initiative

You are now in a Metis Ralph loop for initiative decomposition. Follow these steps:

Initialize

• The initiative content was already read in Step 1
• Use mcp__metis__transition_phase to transition the initiative to "decompose"

Decompose

• Analyze the initiative requirements thoroughly
• Break down the work into discrete, actionable tasks
• Use mcp__metis__create_document to create each task under this initiative
• Each task should be:
  • Independently completable (1-14 days of work)
  • Clear and specific
  • Testable/verifiable

Iterate

• Review the tasks you've created
• Check for gaps in coverage
• Add additional tasks as needed
• Refine task descriptions for clarity

Complete

When decomposition is FULLY complete:

• Do NOT transition to "active" - that requires user approval
• Output: <promise>DECOMPOSITION COMPLETE</promise> to signal ready for review

Critical Rules

• ONLY output the promise when decomposition is genuinely complete
• DO NOT transition to "active" - the user will do this after review
• Create meaningful tasks that cover all aspects of the initiative
• Do NOT create overly granular tasks - aim for substantive work items
• Do NOT lie or output false promises to escape the loop

The loop will continue until you output the promise after completing decomposition.