# Integrations

Codex Research Stack v0.6 treats integrations as optional enhancements. The base workflow must remain usable without them.

## OpenAI-Compatible Provider

The BYOK provider is optional and used only for suggestion-card generation.

- Raw API keys are saved through the system credential store.
- Project directories and provider JSON store metadata and `key_present`, not raw keys.
- Provider output does not directly write project facts.
- Provider output cannot pass gates.
- Provider failure records a `provider_error` event and falls back to local rule suggestions.

## Python

Python 3.11+ can enable richer automatic checks and compatibility scripts. It is not required for the basic project workflow.

## Codex

Codex can be used for bounded recovery task cards. v0.6 does not require Codex to create projects, plan Autopilot runs, add materials, maintain project memory, run quality checks, run project health checks, export diagnostic snapshots, or export project status files.

## Zotero

Zotero is useful for formal reference management. If Zotero is not installed, users can still record DOI, URL, title, source notes, verification status, and evidence status manually.

## Obsidian

Obsidian is useful for long-lived research notes. It is not required for v0.6 local project state or Cockpit memory.

## Offline Use

Offline mode supports local project creation, existing project opening, material entry, evidence drafts, method artifact review, project memory, recovery actions, quality checks, health checks, diagnostic snapshots, and project status export. Online verification must be marked unavailable or pending; the app must not fake verification.