Hello nerds! Let’s about how you should treat content development for your open source project like your open-source project. I know, it sounds meta, but bear with me.

As a developer advocate, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that great content can have on a project’s success. Not only does it help attract new users and contributors, but it also helps retain existing ones. So, let’s dive into some tips on how to approach content development for your open-source project.

Involve your community in creating content

Just like how you triage issues and feature requests, you should involve your community in creating content that they would like to see. After all, they are the ones who will be consuming your content, so it only makes sense to ask them what they want.

One way to do this is to create a feedback loop. You can use tools like surveys or feedback forms to gather input from your community. Another option is to create a dedicated channel in your community platform (like Discord or Slack) for content suggestions.

And don’t forget to acknowledge and thank those who provide feedback. After all, they are taking the time to help you make your project better.

Be open about your content timeline

Just like how the React team has done a great job of being open about the development and process of creating their new docs, you should be open about your content timeline. Let your community know what content you’re working on and when they can expect to see it.

This not only helps manage expectations, but it also creates a sense of transparency and trust between you and your community. Plus, if you encounter any delays or issues, your community will appreciate the heads-up.

Involve the community in content creation

If you feel like there are members of your community that would like to be involved with the content creation process, accept and support their contributions just like you would with a Pull Request. This can include anything from writing blog posts to creating videos or tutorials.

Not only does this help alleviate some of the workload from you, but it also creates a sense of ownership and investment from your community. Plus, it can lead to some unique and creative content that you may not have thought of on your own.

And don’t worry, just like with Pull Requests, you can review and provide feedback on any community contributions before publishing them.

Treating content development for your open source project like your open source project can help create a stronger and more engaged community. By involving your community in the process, being open about your timeline, and supporting community contributions, you can create content that resonates with your audience and helps your project thrive.

Now, go forth and create some awesome content! Oh, and here’s a picture of a happy developer surrounded by content. Enjoy!