RFDs

Requests for Discussion (RFDs) are design documents that propose new features, architectural decisions, and significant changes to AffableLink. We believe in transparent, collaborative decision-making.

What are RFDs?

An RFD is a document that proposes a major feature or a significant change to AffableLink's architecture, strategy, or product direction. RFDs are inspired by the Requests for Discussion process used at companies like Oxide Computer.

Rather than making decisions behind closed doors, we document our reasoning and invite community input. This ensures our decisions are well-thought-out and benefit from diverse perspectives.

RFD States

💭

Pre-Discussion

Early idea stage, not yet ready for feedback

💡

Ideation

Idea is being developed and refined

💬

Discussion

Open discussion and community feedback

📚

Published

Complete and published for reference

✅

Committed

Approved and implementation started

🗑️

Abandoned

Decided against or no longer relevant

Active RFDs

✅Committed
RFD 1: RFD 1: Requests for Discussion
Oct 5, 2025
Jared Butler
meta

A Request for Discussion (RFD) is a design document that proposes a new feature, architecture decision, or significant change to Affable. It's inspired by Oxide's RFD process.

Read More →Discussion
✅Committed
RFD 2: RFD 2: Deep Linking Without Next.js Router
Oct 5, 2025
Jared Butler
frontend, architecture

Our Windows 95-style desktop UI needs deep linking for SEO and shareability, but Next.js router's navigation lifecycle conflicts with our client-side window management state.

Read More →Discussion
💬Discussion
RFD 3: RFD 3: Market Segmentation Through UI Design
Oct 5, 2025
Jared Butler
product, strategy

The Windows 95 desktop UI isn't just aesthetic—it's a deliberate filter for our target market in the early stages.

Read More →Discussion
💬Discussion
RFD 4: RFD 4: Designing a Scalable Affiliate Tracking Database: Key Tradeoffs and Considerations
Oct 5, 2025
Jared Butler
backend, database

When building an affiliate tracking platform, the database schema is the foundation that determines system performance, flexibility, and maintainability.

Read More →Discussion