How To Run an Open Source Project
Starting a Project
An open source project requires a basic Open Source Project Infrastructure. Fortunately, it is easy to establish this - either by using existing wikis and platforms such as Appropedia or the OSE Wiki, or Wordpress. The critical part is to have a clear goal and protocols around which contributors can gather to engage in meaningful development. One can start in the virtual space, and then evolve to meetups and development in real space.
Running an Open Project
In an open source project, the trick is assessing capacity of contributors and doling out specific tasks. Modular breakdown into tiny chunks is essential. Collaborative literacy is key, starting with a Work Log for the Development Team. Anyone is welcome to join the Development team, with roles and responsibilities matched to one's capacity,
Given that hackers are typically anarchistic in nature, it is important to set up an expectation of coordination. While anyone can contribute to the Wiki independently and on any topic related to creating the Open Source Economy, coordinated development can deliver milestones on a predictable schedule.
Projects are broken down into granular parts, such as 3D Printer Modules. This allows a large team to tackle them in parallel.
A clear Getting Involved page should be granular to the point that microtasks can be allocated efficiently. A Contributing Tutorial Video for Developers should be prepared to emphasize the Work Log, Wiki, using FreeCAD, and using Google Docs.
Links
- Open Source Project Infrastructure
- Getting Involved - page listing all onboarding channels
- OSE Social Contract - OSE's promise to the world
- The Book - The project foundational text. In process, expected to be published a year from now.
- How to start an open source project - basics for software - [1]
