Proposal: Consider Using JSON Format for SpecKit Generated Files

[Naoufal-Charafat]

I would like to suggest a possible improvement for SpecKit regarding the current format of the files generated (.md/Markdown). I think it could be worth considering using JSON files instead, as this would bring several key advantages:

• The JSON format provides a clear key-value structure, making it easy for MCP tools and AI agents to interpret and process files automatically.
• It allows developers and systems to locate specific data efficiently and without ambiguity.
• It greatly facilitates integration and updates in automated workflows, where agents can interact directly with structured data.
• While Markdown is ideal for human review, the modern development trend—especially with intelligent agents and automation—is moving toward less manual review.
  For these reasons, I believe it would be highly valuable to consider JSON as the format for SpecKit's main artifacts (plan, tasks, constitution), enabling greater potential for MCP tooling and automation.

[cavanaug]

Please dont, json is ideal for machines, but terrible for humans. Yaml if you must...

[Naoufal-Charafat]

and what is supposed to be AI

[vessel-one]

I’ve been converting my tasks.md files into .json and the results have been fantastic. I’m using Sonnet 4.5 to create the structured task plan, then I run two additional chat windows with Haiku, each working through their assigned tasks. If one agent depends on another, that dependency is marked in the .json, and the agent will pause automatically until the other has finished. You can even have them poll for approval or unblock status.

Using this setup, I implemented an entirely new canvas feature overnight — and only had one minor bug. Overall, extremely successful.

[Naoufal-Charafat]

🙏Would you be so kind as to share with us a repository containing your template that you use with Spec-Kit?

[taylorjonl]

The spec needs to be easily readable by both humans and the AI. I think markdown is perfect for that. I can't imaging reading specs all day in JSON or what if you have to ask a business analyst for an opinion on the spec.