A configuration file that gives Claude instructions about how to behave in a specific project or organization. Loaded automatically at the start of every Claude Code session. The simplest form of an Organizational Operating System — every CLAUDE.md is an OOS in miniature.
Why it matters
Most teams already have a CLAUDE.md. They just do not realize it is the seed of an organizational operating system.
Related terms
Organizational Operating System (OOS)
A structured artifact that encodes how AI agents in an organization coordinate. Uses YAML frontmatter and Markdown-structured c...
System Prompt
Hidden instructions given to an AI model before the conversation starts. Defines role, personality, boundaries, and behavior. T...
Build with this on OTP
OTP encodes coordination intelligence so AI agent teams can run on it. If this term shows up in your team's playbook, it belongs in your OOS.
Found an issue with this definition? Tell us and we'll fix it.