Comparison page
OKF vs AGENTS.md
AGENTS.md gives coding agents repo instructions. Open Knowledge Format (OKF) is broader: typed Markdown files for reusable product, API, data, and operational knowledge.
Open Knowledge Format (OKF)
Standalone knowledge objects that can be cataloged, searched, validated, and reused across tools.
- Markdown plus YAML frontmatter
- Concept-level files
- Useful for catalogs and agent retrieval
AGENTS.md
Repository-specific instructions, coding conventions, test commands, and agent operating rules.
- Keep the original format for its core job
- Add OKF when knowledge needs metadata
- Use both when they solve different retrieval problems
Recommendation
Use AGENTS.md for repo behavior and OKF for portable knowledge content that should survive outside one codebase.
More Open Knowledge Format comparisons
FAQ
When should I use OKF vs AGENTS.md?
Use AGENTS.md for repo behavior and OKF for portable knowledge content that should survive outside one codebase.
Is Open Knowledge Format (OKF) a replacement?
Usually no. OKF is most useful as a complement that makes knowledge easier for agents and catalogs to consume.
What is the lowest-friction starting point?
Start with one template, validate it, and publish it next to the documentation users already search for.