Golden Paths
A Golden Path is a "paved road" — a preconfigured technology package that combines language, framework, runtime, and deployment target into a single production-ready unit.
Each Golden Path (GP1, GP2… GPN) consistently defines: name, GitLab repository, code template, language & framework, CI/CD pipeline, observability, and infrastructure. Everything ready from day one.
Example: Java Spring Boot + JDK 21 + Cloud Run.
Dual Value
Golden Paths offer benefits for both developers and the organization:
For developers
- ⚡ Fast start: Automates the initial deployment
- 🛠️ Built-in best practices: Optimized configurations from day one
- 📦 Managed dependencies: Compatible and tested versions
- 🔧 Integrated tooling: CI/CD, testing, and linting preconfigured
For the organization
- 📊 Official standard: Ensures all teams start with the same base versions and architectures
- 🔒 Security: Security configurations applied by default
- 📈 Scalability: Proven patterns for growth
- 🎯 Governance: Centralized control of approved technologies
Available catalog
These are the operational Golden Paths in the platform catalog:
| Golden Path | Language | Framework | Runtime | Deployment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backend Spring Boot | Java | Spring Boot | JDK 21 | Cloud Run |
| Backend Python FastAPI | Python | FastAPI | Python 3.11+ | Cloud Run |
| Frontend React | TypeScript | React | Node 22 | Cloud Run |
The catalog also shows a GKE option, but currently only Cloud Run is enabled for application creation.
How to Choose a Golden Path
The choice depends on your team's context:
| Criterion | Spring Boot | FastAPI | React |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squad ecosystem | Java/JVM teams | Python/ML teams | JS/TS teams |
| Service type | Enterprise APIs | Async APIs, data/AI | Interactive web |
| Performance | High throughput | Async I/O, data | Interactive UX |
If your squad has no technology preference, Backend Spring Boot is the Golden Path with the most support and documentation on the platform.
Using the Portal
In the portal's Golden Paths catalog, the workflow is:
- Select the Golden Path (Spring Boot, FastAPI, or React)
- Choose the deployment target (Cloud Run)
- Choose how you want to work: Via IDE (from your editor) or Via WEB (from the platform)
This creates the GitLab repository with the base structure, configures the CI/CD pipeline, and generates initial code ready to deploy.
See the My Products (IT Elements) guide for the full portal workflow.
You can also create applications from Cursor with the lifecycle skill:
/create-app --golden-path=java-spring-boot --product=my-product
For FastAPI or React, describe what you need in natural language in the agent chat (for example: "Create a Python
FastAPI application named my-app in product my-product").
Learn more about mcp-andes installation to automate lifecycle tasks once your Golden Path is configured.