Product Definition

The repository-level PRODUCT.md (at the repository root; not copied by consumer sync since this reference file is) is the canonical product definition for BaseCoat. It uses a BaseCoat-specific sectioned structure in CommonMark that captures product context, users, purpose, boundaries, and design principles for this repository.

How downstream repositories use it

During onboarding, inventory the downstream repository's existing PRODUCT.md before proposing design or UX changes. If it is missing, propose a repository-owned definition rather than silently creating one. Use the design: onboarding debate to compare the proposed product definition with the repository's current UI, UX, information architecture, accessibility requirements, and design-system evidence.

The BaseCoat file is a reference for the operating model, not a template to copy over a downstream product definition. Tools must preserve sections, frontmatter, and machine islands they do not own.