Build Systems, Not Just Code: The Prompt-to-Production Playbook for AI-Native Devs

I used to treat AI tools like productivity hacks. Lately, I’ve been trying to treat them more like teammates.

I’ve been slowly piecing together a repeatable workflow that helps me go from vague feature idea → deployed code — using AI at every step.

It’s not perfect. But it’s helped me cut down on rework, tighten my specs, and build with a little more confidence.

I’m calling it the Prompt-to-Production Framework — a 6-stage system I’m still refining.

Here’s the rough outline:

1. Frame – Use AI to clarify specs before writing any code

2. Forge – Prompt modular scaffolds for cleaner architecture

3. Fortify – Let test prompts capture edge cases before they hit prod

4. Fine-Tune – Use AI as a second pair of eyes to catch risks early

5. Finalize – Automate the boring stuff (commits, changelogs, reviewer notes)

6. Feedback – Log failures, tweak prompts, and improve the system

I don’t follow every step every time — but even using a few has made a difference.

If you want to try parts of this system, here’s what I’m sharing:

• Deep Dive Post – The full breakdown of the framework

• PR Checklist – A comprehensive PR list to use before shipping

• Prompt Log Template – Helps spot and reuse patterns

This isn’t meant to be a one-size-fits-all solution.

But if you’re experimenting with AI in your workflow and want something more systematic — maybe this can be a starting point.

Let me know if you end up adapting it. I’d love to learn from your take.

-Hou