Use cases

Local review

Run a changed-file check before opening a pull request. Use --verbose when investigating the full set of findings.

Agent loop

The repository SKILL.md routes an agent to relevant patterns. The agent can run --format agent, inspect only actionable findings, and use --explain CHECK_ID when it needs more context.

For Java repositories, pair the hook or CI step with the project's Maven/Gradle checks. Nice Code does not replace Java compilation, formatting, dependency analysis, Checkstyle, SpotBugs, or Spring integration tests.

CI and audits

Use JSON or SARIF for complete artifacts. Keep uncertain REVIEW findings visible without turning them into automatic failures. For monthly audits, run a full scan, generate or compare a baseline, inspect recurring findings, and revise noisy patterns only when evidence supports the change.