Install.md: Innovation or Reinventing Gherkin? (docsalot.dev)

A new proposal called install.md aims to create a standardized markdown format specifically for AI agents to autonomously install software. While it proposes to address the difficulties AI encounters with traditional documentation—often leading to hallucinated commands—the concept raises questions about necessity, given that effective installation guides already exist. Critics argue that install.md is more of a workaround for AI's current limitations rather than a genuine solution, potentially complicating documentation efforts rather than simplifying them. Significantly, the proposal reflects a broader trend in the AI/ML landscape where the ease of creation has led to an influx of solutions that may not address real problems. Many argue that instead of creating another format, developers should focus on enhancing existing documentation standards like Gherkin, which already provide structured, executable instructions and have established tooling. This raises philosophical questions about the evolution of AI capabilities; rather than building for current shortcomings, the industry should trust that AI will improve and that well-crafted traditional guides will suffice for both human and machine users.