A collection of lessons drawn from my personal experience as the creator of the niche open source Docsify-This project (built with the magical documentation site generator Docsify.js.org)
Provide potential users and contributors of your open-source project its purpose and value using jargon-free language, ideally within 5 seconds
Briefly describe the problems that your open-source project solves, and continue to update this list as the the project evolves and new information is learned.
Make readily accessible demos or example content available to support proof of purpose or value when users are initially trying out your open-source project.
Actively pair the writing of documentation with the prototyping or development of new functionality for your open-source project, ideally in a highly iterative manner.
Share out concepts and designs of new prototypes or development of your open source project to help refine your design thinking and invite early feedback (not a replacement for usability testing).
A barrier free first-time user experience can significantly impact an open-source project's uptake, even those with a more tech-savvy audience.
Actively engage with the target audience of your open-source project in their preferred physical and online spaces, fostering an ongoing dialog.
Think about the open source project's long-term sustainability early, considering financial feasibility in addition to development efforts and ongoing maintenance.
https://xmind.ai/embed/TCziNMw6?sheet-id=b228808074fb931876462b870
This post is part of the 🌱 Sustainable Open Source Projects Pack - a collection of posts about building projects you can maintain in the long run.