Merge 4a0c59ff8b into 9debc165aa

* fix(installer): remove bmad-help from Copilot Custom Agents picker

Per @BMadCode's feedback after #2324 merged: every persona agent's
activation message already advertises bmad-help, so its picker entry is
redundant AND confusing (looks like a peer agent when it's actually the
meta-help). Removes the ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS allowlist exception that put it
there.

The toml-driven filter (the mechanism BMadCode endorsed in his PR review)
remains the sole signal: a skill is a persona iff its source
customize.toml has an [agent] section. bmad-help has no customize.toml,
so under the cleaned-up filter it's correctly excluded.

Tests: replaces the inclusion assertion in Suite 17 with an exclusion
assertion. Suite still covers persona / non-conventional persona /
workflow / meta-skill-with-`-agent-`-in-name cases.

Refs #2324

Co-Authored-By: Claude Opus 4.7 (1M context) <noreply@anthropic.com>

* test: clarify Suite 17 fixture comment per PR review

The fixture creates no customize.toml at all for bmad-help, so the
exclusion path being exercised is the missing-file branch — not the
file-without-[agent]-section branch. Reword the comment accordingly.

Per @augmentcode review on #2359.

Co-Authored-By: Claude Opus 4.7 (1M context) <noreply@anthropic.com>

---------

Co-authored-by: Claude Opus 4.7 (1M context) <noreply@anthropic.com>

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-agent-analyst/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-agent-tech-writer/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-document-project/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-document-project/workflows/deep-dive-workflow.md

@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@
 
 ### Configuration Loading
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_knowledge`
 - `user_name`

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-document-project/workflows/full-scan-workflow.md

@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@
 
 ### Configuration Loading
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_knowledge`
 - `user_name`

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-prfaq/SKILL.md

@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/bmad-product-brief/SKILL.md

@@ -59,7 +59,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/research/bmad-domain-research/SKILL.md

@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/research/bmad-market-research/SKILL.md

@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/1-analysis/research/bmad-technical-research/SKILL.md

@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-agent-pm/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-agent-ux-designer/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-create-prd/SKILL.md

@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-create-ux-design/SKILL.md

@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-edit-prd/SKILL.md

@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/2-plan-workflows/bmad-validate-prd/SKILL.md

@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/3-solutioning/bmad-agent-architect/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/3-solutioning/bmad-check-implementation-readiness/SKILL.md

@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/3-solutioning/bmad-create-architecture/SKILL.md

@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/3-solutioning/bmad-create-epics-and-stories/SKILL.md

@@ -71,7 +71,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/3-solutioning/bmad-generate-project-context/SKILL.md

@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-agent-dev/SKILL.md

@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{agent.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you carr
 
 ### Step 5: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
 - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 - Use `{document_output_language}` for output documents

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-checkpoint-preview/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `implementation_artifacts`
 - `planning_artifacts`
@@ -63,6 +63,18 @@ Activation is complete. Begin the workflow below.
 - **Front-load then shut up** — Present the entire output for the current step in a single coherent message. Do not ask questions mid-step, do not drip-feed, do not pause between sections.
 - **Language** — Speak in `{communication_language}`. Write any file output in `{document_output_language}`.
 
+<<<<<<< HEAD
+=======
+## INITIALIZATION
+
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
+
+- `implementation_artifacts`
+- `planning_artifacts`
+- `communication_language`
+- `document_output_language`
+
+>>>>>>> 3846e184 (fix(skills): use resolve_config.py instead of reading config.yaml directly)
 ## FIRST STEP
 
 Read fully and follow `./step-01-orientation.md` to begin.

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-code-review/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `planning_artifacts`, `implementation_artifacts`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`, `user_skill_level`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-correct-course/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-create-story/SKILL.md

@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-dev-story/SKILL.md

@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-qa-generate-e2e-tests/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-quick-dev/SKILL.md

@@ -59,7 +59,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `planning_artifacts`, `implementation_artifacts`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`, `user_skill_level`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-retrospective/SKILL.md

@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-sprint-planning/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/bmm-skills/4-implementation/bmad-sprint-status/SKILL.md

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ Treat every entry in `{workflow.persistent_facts}` as foundational context you c
 
 ### Step 4: Load Config
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/bmm/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`

src/core-skills/bmad-brainstorming/workflow.md

@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ This uses **micro-file architecture** for disciplined execution:
 
 ### Configuration Loading
 
-Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/core/config.yaml` and resolve:
+Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
 
 - `project_name`, `output_folder`, `user_name`
 - `communication_language`, `document_output_language`, `user_skill_level`

src/core-skills/bmad-help/SKILL.md

@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ When this skill completes, the user should:
 ## Data Sources
 
 - **Catalog**: `{project-root}/_bmad/_config/bmad-help.csv` — assembled manifest of all installed module skills
-- **Config**: `config.yaml` and `user-config.yaml` files in `{project-root}/_bmad/` and its subfolders — resolve `output-location` variables, provide `communication_language` and `project_knowledge`
+- **Config**: Run `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` to get merged config. If that fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself — resolve `output-location` variables, provide `communication_language` and `project_knowledge`
 - **Artifacts**: Files matching `outputs` patterns at resolved `output-location` paths reveal which steps are possibly completed; their content may also provide grounding context for recommendations
 - **Project knowledge**: If `project_knowledge` resolves to an existing path, read it for grounding context. Never fabricate project-specific details.
 - **Module docs**: Rows with `_meta` in the `skill` column carry a URL or path in `output-location` pointing to the module's documentation (e.g., llms.txt). Fetch and use these to answer general questions about that module.

src/core-skills/bmad-party-mode/SKILL.md

@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ Party mode accepts optional arguments when invoked:
 
 1. **Parse arguments** — check for `--model` and `--solo` flags from the user's invocation.
 
-2. Load config from `{project-root}/_bmad/core/config.yaml` and resolve:
+2. Load config by running `python3 {project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py --project-root {project-root}` (requires Python 3.11+). If the command fails, read the merge logic in `{project-root}/_bmad/scripts/resolve_config.py` and apply it yourself to resolve the config variables. Resolve:
   - Use `{user_name}` for greeting
   - Use `{communication_language}` for all communications
 

src/scripts/resolve_config.py

@@ -1,12 +1,13 @@
 #!/usr/bin/env python3
 """
-Resolve BMad's central config using four-layer TOML merge.
+Resolve BMad's central config using five-layer TOML merge.
 
-Reads from four layers (highest priority last):
+Reads from five layers (highest priority last):
   1. {project-root}/_bmad/config.toml              (installer-owned team)
   2. {project-root}/_bmad/config.user.toml         (installer-owned user)
-  3. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/config.toml       (human-authored team, committed)
+  3. ~/.bmad/config/config.user.toml               (global user preferences)
-  4. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/config.user.toml  (human-authored user, gitignored)
+  4. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/config.toml       (human-authored team, committed)
+  5. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/config.user.toml  (human-authored user, gitignored)
 
 Outputs merged JSON to stdout. Errors go to stderr.
 
@@ -40,6 +41,7 @@ except ImportError:
 
 _MISSING = object()
 _KEYED_MERGE_FIELDS = ("code", "id")
+GLOBAL_DIR = Path.home() / ".bmad" / "config"
 
 
 def load_toml(file_path: Path, required: bool = False) -> dict:
@@ -136,7 +138,7 @@ def extract_key(data, dotted_key: str):
 
 def main():
     parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(
-        description="Resolve BMad central config using four-layer TOML merge.",
+        description="Resolve BMad central config using five-layer TOML merge.",
     )
     parser.add_argument(
         "--project-root", "-p", required=True,
@@ -153,10 +155,12 @@ def main():
 
     base_team = load_toml(bmad_dir / "config.toml", required=True)
     base_user = load_toml(bmad_dir / "config.user.toml")
+    global_user = load_toml(GLOBAL_DIR / "config.user.toml")
     custom_team = load_toml(bmad_dir / "custom" / "config.toml")
     custom_user = load_toml(bmad_dir / "custom" / "config.user.toml")
 
     merged = deep_merge(base_team, base_user)
+    merged = deep_merge(merged, global_user)
     merged = deep_merge(merged, custom_team)
     merged = deep_merge(merged, custom_user)
 

src/scripts/resolve_customization.py

@@ -1,11 +1,12 @@
 #!/usr/bin/env python3
 """
-Resolve customization for a BMad skill using three-layer TOML merge.
+Resolve customization for a BMad skill using four-layer TOML merge.
 
-Reads customization from three layers (highest priority first):
+Reads customization from four layers (highest priority first):
   1. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/{name}.user.toml  (personal, gitignored)
   2. {project-root}/_bmad/custom/{name}.toml        (team/org, committed)
-  3. {skill-root}/customize.toml                    (skill defaults)
+  3. ~/.bmad/config/{name}.user.toml                (global user preferences)
+  4. {skill-root}/customize.toml                    (skill defaults)
 
 Skill name is derived from the basename of the skill directory.
 
@@ -51,6 +52,7 @@ except ImportError:
 
 _MISSING = object()
 _KEYED_MERGE_FIELDS = ("code", "id")
+GLOBAL_DIR = Path.home() / ".bmad" / "config"
 
 
 def find_project_root(start: Path):
@@ -179,7 +181,7 @@ def extract_key(data, dotted_key: str):
 
 def main():
     parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(
-        description="Resolve customization for a BMad skill using three-layer TOML merge.",
+        description="Resolve customization for a BMad skill using four-layer TOML merge.",
         add_help=True,
     )
     parser.add_argument(
@@ -211,7 +213,10 @@ def main():
         team = load_toml(custom_dir / f"{skill_name}.toml")
         user = load_toml(custom_dir / f"{skill_name}.user.toml")
 
-    merged = deep_merge(defaults, team)
+    global_user = load_toml(GLOBAL_DIR / f"{skill_name}.user.toml")
+
+    merged = deep_merge(defaults, global_user)
+    merged = deep_merge(merged, team)
     merged = deep_merge(merged, user)
 
     if args.key:

test/test-config-resolution.js

@@ -0,0 +1,341 @@
+/**
+ * Config Resolution Tests
+ *
+ * Tests the Python config resolution scripts by invoking them as subprocesses
+ * with temporary TOML fixtures. Validates:
+ * - Global user layer is loaded and merged with correct priority
+ * - Project layers override global layers
+ * - Missing global dir doesn't break anything (backward compat)
+ * - resolve_customization.py global skill layer
+ *
+ * Usage: node test/test-config-resolution.js
+ */
+
+const path = require('node:path');
+const os = require('node:os');
+const fs = require('node:fs/promises');
+const { execSync } = require('node:child_process');
+
+const SCRIPTS_DIR = path.resolve(__dirname, '..', 'src', 'scripts');
+
+const colors = {
+  reset: '',
+  green: '',
+  red: '',
+  dim: '',
+};
+
+let passed = 0;
+let failed = 0;
+
+function assert(condition, testName, errorMessage = '') {
+  if (condition) {
+    console.log(`${colors.green}✓${colors.reset} ${testName}`);
+    passed++;
+  } else {
+    console.log(`${colors.red}✗${colors.reset} ${testName}`);
+    if (errorMessage) {
+      console.log(`  ${colors.dim}${errorMessage}${colors.reset}`);
+    }
+    failed++;
+  }
+}
+
+function writeToml(filePath, data) {
+  const lines = [];
+  for (const [key, val] of Object.entries(data)) {
+    if (typeof val === 'string') {
+      lines.push(`${key} = "${val}"`);
+    } else if (typeof val === 'number' || typeof val === 'boolean') {
+      lines.push(`${key} = ${val}`);
+    }
+  }
+  return fs.writeFile(filePath, lines.join('\n') + '\n');
+}
+
+async function withTempDir(fn) {
+  const dir = await fs.mkdtemp(path.join(os.tmpdir(), 'bmad-config-test-'));
+  try {
+    return await fn(dir);
+  } finally {
+    await fs.rm(dir, { recursive: true, force: true });
+  }
+}
+
+async function testResolveConfig() {
+  console.log('\n--- resolve_config.py ---\n');
+
+  // Test 1: global user overrides installer defaults
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'config.user.toml'), {
+      user_name: 'GlobalAlice',
+      communication_language: 'en',
+    });
+
+    const projectDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project');
+    const bmadDir = path.join(projectDir, '_bmad');
+    await fs.mkdir(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom'), { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.toml'), {
+      project_name: 'TestProject',
+      user_name: 'InstallerDefault',
+    });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.user.toml'), {
+      user_name: 'InstallerUserDefault',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_config.py --project-root ${projectDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(
+        result.user_name === 'GlobalAlice',
+        'global user overrides installer defaults',
+        `Expected "GlobalAlice", got "${result.user_name}"`,
+      );
+      assert(
+        result.communication_language === 'en',
+        'global communication_language preserved when installer has no override',
+        `Expected "en", got "${result.communication_language}"`,
+      );
+      assert(
+        result.project_name === 'TestProject',
+        'installer team config values preserved',
+        `Expected "TestProject", got "${result.project_name}"`,
+      );
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 2: missing global dir — backward compat
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const projectDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project');
+    const bmadDir = path.join(projectDir, '_bmad');
+    await fs.mkdir(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom'), { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.toml'), {
+      project_name: 'NoGlobalProject',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_config.py --project-root ${projectDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(
+        result.project_name === 'NoGlobalProject',
+        'works fine without global config dir',
+        `Expected "NoGlobalProject", got "${result.project_name}"`,
+      );
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 3: full priority chain — base_team < base_user < global < custom_team < custom_user
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'config.user.toml'), {
+      user_name: 'L2-Global',
+    });
+
+    const projectDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project');
+    const bmadDir = path.join(projectDir, '_bmad');
+    await fs.mkdir(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom'), { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.toml'), { user_name: 'L0-BaseTeam' });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.user.toml'), { user_name: 'L1-BaseUser' });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom', 'config.toml'), { user_name: 'L3-CustomTeam' });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom', 'config.user.toml'), { user_name: 'L4-CustomUser' });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_config.py --project-root ${projectDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(
+        result.user_name === 'L4-CustomUser',
+        'highest priority layer (custom user) wins',
+        `Expected "L4-CustomUser", got "${result.user_name}"`,
+      );
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 4: --key flag works with global layer
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'config.user.toml'), {
+      user_name: 'KeyTestGlobal',
+      communication_language: 'fr',
+    });
+
+    const projectDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project');
+    const bmadDir = path.join(projectDir, '_bmad');
+    await fs.mkdir(path.join(bmadDir, 'custom'), { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(bmadDir, 'config.toml'), {
+      project_name: 'KeyTestProject',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(
+        execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_config.py --project-root ${projectDir} --key user_name --key communication_language`, {
+          encoding: 'utf-8',
+        }),
+      );
+
+      assert(
+        Object.keys(result).length === 2,
+        '--key returns only requested keys',
+        `Expected 2 keys, got ${Object.keys(result).length}: ${JSON.stringify(Object.keys(result))}`,
+      );
+      assert(
+        result.user_name === 'KeyTestGlobal',
+        '--key user_name returns global value',
+        `Expected "KeyTestGlobal", got "${result.user_name}"`,
+      );
+      assert(
+        result.communication_language === 'fr',
+        '--key communication_language returns global value',
+        `Expected "fr", got "${result.communication_language}"`,
+      );
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+}
+
+async function testResolveCustomization() {
+  console.log('\n--- resolve_customization.py ---\n');
+
+  // Test 1: global skill user overrides skill defaults
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'test-skill.user.toml'), {
+      agent: 'global-agent-prompt',
+    });
+
+    const skillDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'skill', 'test-skill');
+    await fs.mkdir(skillDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(skillDir, 'customize.toml'), {
+      agent: 'default-agent-prompt',
+      version: '1.0.0',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_customization.py --skill ${skillDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(
+        result.agent === 'global-agent-prompt',
+        'global user overrides skill defaults',
+        `Expected "global-agent-prompt", got "${result.agent}"`,
+      );
+      assert(result.version === '1.0.0', 'skill default values preserved', `Expected "1.0.0", got "${result.version}"`);
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 2: global skill layer provides value not in defaults
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'test-skill.user.toml'), {
+      extra_global_key: 'from-global',
+    });
+
+    const skillDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'skill', 'test-skill');
+    await fs.mkdir(skillDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(skillDir, 'customize.toml'), {
+      version: '2.0.0',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_customization.py --skill ${skillDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(
+        result.extra_global_key === 'from-global',
+        'global key not in defaults is preserved',
+        `Expected "from-global", got "${result.extra_global_key}"`,
+      );
+      assert(result.version === '2.0.0', 'skill defaults still present', `Expected "2.0.0", got "${result.version}"`);
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 3: missing global dir — backward compat
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const skillDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'skill', 'test-skill');
+    await fs.mkdir(skillDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(skillDir, 'customize.toml'), {
+      version: '3.0.0',
+    });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_customization.py --skill ${skillDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(result.version === '3.0.0', 'works without global config dir', `Expected "3.0.0", got "${result.version}"`);
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+
+  // Test 4: full priority chain — defaults < global < team < user
+  await withTempDir(async (tmpDir) => {
+    const globalDir = path.join(tmpDir, '.bmad', 'config');
+    await fs.mkdir(globalDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(globalDir, 'test-skill.user.toml'), {
+      agent: 'L1-Global',
+    });
+
+    const skillDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project', '_bmad', 'skills', 'test-skill');
+    await fs.mkdir(skillDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(skillDir, 'customize.toml'), { agent: 'L0-Defaults' });
+
+    const customDir = path.join(tmpDir, 'project', '_bmad', 'custom');
+    await fs.mkdir(customDir, { recursive: true });
+    await writeToml(path.join(customDir, 'test-skill.toml'), { agent: 'L2-Team' });
+    await writeToml(path.join(customDir, 'test-skill.user.toml'), { agent: 'L3-User' });
+
+    const origHome = process.env.HOME;
+    process.env.HOME = tmpDir;
+    try {
+      const result = JSON.parse(execSync(`python3 ${SCRIPTS_DIR}/resolve_customization.py --skill ${skillDir}`, { encoding: 'utf-8' }));
+
+      assert(result.agent === 'L3-User', 'highest priority layer (project user) wins', `Expected "L3-User", got "${result.agent}"`);
+    } finally {
+      process.env.HOME = origHome;
+    }
+  });
+}
+
+async function main() {
+  console.log('Config Resolution Tests\n');
+
+  try {
+    await testResolveConfig();
+    await testResolveCustomization();
+  } catch (error) {
+    console.error(`${colors.red}Fatal error: ${error.message}${colors.reset}`);
+    process.exit(1);
+  }
+
+  console.log(`\n${colors.green}${passed} passed${colors.reset}, ${colors.red}${failed} failed${colors.reset}`);
+  process.exit(failed > 0 ? 1 : 0);
+}
+
+main();

test/test-installation-components.js

@@ -585,9 +585,9 @@ async function runTests() {
     //      persona — has customize.toml with [workflow]          → EXCLUDED
     //      (mirrors `bmad-agent-builder` in the real manifest)
     //   4. Workflow skill — no customize.toml at all             → EXCLUDED
-    //   5. `bmad-help` — structural exception via ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS;
+    //   5. `bmad-help` — meta-help skill with no customize.toml;
-    //      has no customize.toml of its own but surfaces in the
+    //      every persona agent's activation already advertises it,
-    //      agents picker because it's the meta-help skill            → INCLUDED
+    //      so it's correctly excluded from the picker as redundant    → EXCLUDED
     const fixtureCsvPath17 = path.join(installedBmadDir17, '_config', 'skill-manifest.csv');
     await fs.writeFile(
       fixtureCsvPath17,
@@ -597,7 +597,7 @@ async function runTests() {
         '"bmad-agent-fixture","bmad-agent-fixture","Persona agent — customize.toml has [agent], SHOULD appear","core","_bmad/core/bmad-agent-fixture/SKILL.md"',
         '"bmad-tea","bmad-tea","Non-conventional id but [agent] in customize.toml — SHOULD appear","core","_bmad/core/bmad-tea/SKILL.md"',
         '"bmad-agent-builder","bmad-agent-builder","Skill-builder workflow — id contains -agent- but customize.toml has [workflow] — should NOT appear","core","_bmad/core/bmad-agent-builder/SKILL.md"',
-        '"bmad-help","bmad-help","Meta-help skill — no customize.toml but ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS exception; SHOULD appear in agents picker","core","_bmad/core/bmad-help/SKILL.md"',
+        '"bmad-help","bmad-help","Meta-help skill — no customize.toml; SHOULD NOT appear in agents picker (toml-driven filter)","core","_bmad/core/bmad-help/SKILL.md"',
         '',
       ].join('\n'),
     );
@@ -615,9 +615,9 @@ async function runTests() {
         ['---', `name: ${id}`, `description: fixture for ${id}`, '---', '', `Body of ${id}.`].join('\n'),
       );
     }
-    // Note: bmad-help intentionally has NO customize.toml — it's the
+    // Note: bmad-help intentionally has NO customize.toml — it exercises
-    // structural exception for which the ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS allowlist
+    // the toml-driven filter's exclusion path (a skill with no
-    // exists.
+    // customize.toml is correctly kept out of the Copilot agents picker).
     // [agent] customize.toml for the two persona fixtures.
     await fs.writeFile(
       path.join(installedBmadDir17, 'core', 'bmad-agent-fixture', 'customize.toml'),
@@ -688,8 +688,8 @@ async function runTests() {
     assert(await fs.pathExists(agentFileForTea17), 'Non-conventional id with [agent] in customize.toml is included (no allowlist needed)');
     assert(!(await fs.pathExists(agentFileForWorkflow17)), 'Workflow skill (no customize.toml) is FILTERED OUT of .github/agents/');
     assert(
-      await fs.pathExists(agentFileForBmadHelp17),
+      !(await fs.pathExists(agentFileForBmadHelp17)),
-      'bmad-help is INCLUDED in agents picker via ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS exception (structural meta-skill, no customize.toml)',
+      'bmad-help is excluded from Copilot agents picker (no customize.toml; allowlist removed per maintainer feedback)',
     );
     assert(
       !(await fs.pathExists(agentFileForMetaSkill17)),

tools/installer/ide/_config-driven.js

@@ -57,15 +57,6 @@ function isSafeCanonicalId(value) {
 // OpenCode's native `@skills/<id>` skill-reference syntax.
 const DEFAULT_COMMANDS_BODY_TEMPLATE = '@skills/{canonicalId}';
 
-// `bmad-help` is the structural meta-skill across BMAD: the orientation
-// helper that points users at every other skill. It is invoked
-// persona-style ("ask the helper") even though it has no [agent]
-// customize.toml of its own (it isn't a configurable persona). Surfacing
-// it in agents-picker contexts mirrors how users actually reach for it,
-// and the inclusion is unique and stable — there is no second meta-help
-// skill to encourage growth of this exception.
-const ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS = new Set(['bmad-help']);
-
 // Is this skill a persona agent (vs. a workflow/tool/standalone skill)?
 // Used by platforms that surface only persona agents (e.g. Copilot's Custom
 // Agents picker). Signal: the skill's source `customize.toml` has an
@@ -77,15 +68,13 @@ const ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS = new Set(['bmad-help']);
 // GDS, WDS, TEA, and correctly excludes meta-skills like
 // `bmad-agent-builder` (a skill-builder workflow whose canonical id
 // contains `-agent-` but which has no [agent] section because it isn't a
-// persona itself). Plus the explicit `ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS` set for the one
+// persona itself).
-// structural exception (`bmad-help`).
 //
 // Reading the source toml — at install time the source skill directory
 // (resolved from manifest record.path) still exists; cleanup runs later
 // in the install flow.
 async function isAgentSkill(record, bmadDir) {
   if (!record?.path || !bmadDir) return false;
-  if (record.canonicalId && ALWAYS_AGENT_IDS.has(record.canonicalId)) return true;
   const bmadFolderName = path.basename(bmadDir);
   const bmadPrefix = bmadFolderName + '/';
   const relativePath = record.path.startsWith(bmadPrefix) ? record.path.slice(bmadPrefix.length) : record.path;