The open web benefits from collaboration of many people on projects, but how can you encourage people to contribute to yours? After years of struggle, I recently stumbled on a formula for engaging other contributors, and have used it to develop a module with almost all of the development by other contributors.

Prerequisite
Some knowledge of open source contribution would be helpful.

To apply the techniques described, a good understanding of the project being developed is needed. It isn’t a magic bullet that allows a completely hands off approach.

A basic understanding of the Drupal contribution credit system is also helpful, but not essential.

Outline
I recently started a new Drupal module, and opened some issues to help guide my development process. After developing the first couple, I was shocked to discover one of my issues was assigned to another developer, and they had created a merge request. I only needed to suggest a few minor adjustments before it was ready to merge.

Since then,at least six other developers have contributed to the project, and have closed over a dozen issues without writing any additional code myself. Contributors have also jumped in on code reviews, helping move the project forward. I have since started applying similar techniques to other projects.

Some benefits of this approach:

- Increases engagements in open source projects
- Avoids the need to review your own code
- More eyes on the project, leading to better code quality and earlier discovery of issues
- Accelerates progress of project
- Builds up community of people knowledgeable about your project
- Encourages contribution, supporting the health of the open web
- Encourages developers to gain experience through contribution
- Expands pool of development knowledge
- Fosters community involvement makes your project

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, you should understand:

- Open issues in a way that makes them appealing to contributors
- Collaborate effectively with contributors to resolve issues
- Structure your project to encourage community contribution
- Use the contribution credit system responsibly to support your project and recognize contributors

Experience level
Intermediate