Vibe coding, using AI tools for rapid product development, can lead to significant pitfalls if system design isn't properly considered. While AI can efficiently create functional applications, it often sacrifices structural integrity for speed. For instance, when building an Applicant Tracking System using Lovable, the author encountered hardcoded values that limited flexibility. This highlights a common issue: AI optimizes for immediate functionality rather than long-term adaptability. The author stresses the importance of understanding systems thinking before diving into vibe coding. Key decisions about configurations, dependencies, and potential changes must be made upfront. If these aren't addressed, the resulting product can become messy and fragile. To mitigate this risk, the author recommends asking five critical questions before starting to code. These questions focus on potential changes, the source of truth, and testing strategies, ensuring that development is purposeful rather than haphazard. While there’s a debate about the need for formal documentation like a Product Requirements Document (PRD), the author suggests a balanced approach. For complex projects, a PRD is beneficial, but for simpler applications, lighter planning might suffice. The author is experimenting with a one-page system sketch that encapsulates these core questions, aiming to clarify assumptions and guide the development process effectively.