Growing your free software project

LibrePlanet 2015

Many free software projects are interested in growing their user and contributor bases, but it can be hard to know where to start. This workshop will go over some key first steps to growing a friendly and diverse community, such as:

Making sure your “Getting Started” materials, such as installation and contributor guides, are accurate and accessible
Running quick user tests and processing the feedback
Promoting your project through social media and in-person events

After an introductory presentation, the audience will break out into groups and work on activities designed to make taking these steps as easy as possible. Individuals will have the opportunity to try out multiple activities. Those who do not currently have a free software project to contribute to will be paired with those who do, and can learn these useful skills to apply in the future.

At the end of the workshop, there will be a wrap-up presentation which will also briefly cover a wide range of additional tools, tips, and resources for growing and diversifying your community.

Speakers: Shauna Gordon-McKeon