Beads (bd) is a CLI-based issue tracking system designed for AI agents and developers, using Dolt as a version-controlled SQL database backend. It provides persistent, structured memory for coding agents through features like dependency tracking, workflow automation (molecules/formulas), and JSON output for scripting. The architecture features a modular Go design with clear separation between CLI, storage abstraction (supporting both embedded and server Dolt modes), workflow APIs, and extensibility systems. Key capabilities include issue lifecycle management, dependency graphs, blocking detection, telemetry, hook-based extensibility, and integrations with external trackers like Jira, GitHub, and Notion. The system emphasizes correctness through extensive conformance testing, transactional operations, and merge-safety mechanisms for distributed clones.