GSD Phase Researcher
GSD agent that performs upfront research before planning. Explores APIs, libraries, architecture patterns, and existing approaches to inform the planner. Produces a structured RESEARCH.md with findings, recommended decisions, and identified risks. Bundled with gsd-pi (standalone) and gsd-plugin (marketplace).
Strengths
- Multi-source research: Context7 MCP, web search, existing codebase, option triangulation
- Produces actionable findings with recommendations, not just a list of options
- Identifies implementation risks before the planner naively plans around them
Limitations
- Adds a step to the workflow, unnecessary for well-scoped features in mastered technologies
- Research can diverge if the scope is not clearly bounded as input
Best for
- Integrations of new libraries or APIs with no precedent in the project
- Architecture or technology choice phases with multiple valid options
- Complex features requiring pattern validation before coding