This document summarizes Deb Nicholson's talk on getting and keeping non-coding contributors involved in free and open source software projects. Some key points include: 1) Free software needs diverse contributors beyond just coders, including non-technical roles. However, these groups may need to be found and recruited through different channels than coders. 2) It is important to be clear about the types of roles available and what is required. Onboarding should prepare contributors for success and avoid giving them "just grunt work". 3) Maintaining contributors involves teamwork, recognition, inclusion, and finding ways for them to feel invested in the shared goals of the project. Leaving lines of communication open and making

1. Noncoders Wanted
Deb Nicholson- FOSDEM-Jan. 2, 2014

2. People do not fit into tiny boxes

4. No one else is doing it?

6. Spread too thin

7. Why I'm giving this talk

14. Why close the circle?

15. Free Software needs
all kinds of people

16. GETTING PEOPLE

17. Help with all the things?

19. Who knows what you need?

20. Who knows what you need?
(Hint: It might not be you.)

22. Non-coders are the same

23. And they're also different

25. Probably not the same place
you found your coders

26. Unless it's the GNOME
Outreach Program for Women

27. A special note about internships

28. More than just grunt work

30. Prepare

31. Clear is/is not

32. Check your lines of communication

34. KEEPING THEM

35. Teamwork makes the dream work.

37. Working towards one goal

39. Team-players are more invested

40. A little recognition can go a long way

41. Always be including

43. Reciprocal

44. Habit-forming!

46. You do not want to be known
for not doing it

47. Everyone is an expert at something

49. You'll get your you-know-what
handed to you

50. Get rid of the pedestal

51. Not because sadness

52. (although I am opposed to
unnecessary sadness)

53. Because there are
other fishes in the sea

54. Because there are
other goblins in the sea

56. RECAP

57. Everyone is an expert at something

59. Bonus points for finding out
why they work on your project

61. Or they will leave

62. Picture credits
CC.BY.SA
It's All Gone Horribly Wrong, by Rob Myers (Mediagoblin) - Not Hearing That, by
Paul Stevenson (Flickr) - Bean Bag Kid, by Peter Clark (Flickr) - Giant Ear?, by
jmrodri (Flickr) - Big Ball, by Mike Cogh (Flickr) - SWOT, by Xhienne (Wikipedia)
CC.BY via Flickr
Mountain Sunrise, by Chris Wary - Help Wanted, by photologue mp - Signed
Jersey, by Richard BH - Listening Cat, by Zanastardust - Black Belt, by Camera
Eye Photography - Mustard Green, by soomen - Wuhan Garden, by toehk
CC.0
In Your Internet, by Chris Webber (MediaGoblin)
Public Domain
Gravity from NASA (Wikipedia)
Fair Use
Sneetches by Dr. Seuss - "Ugly Jesus" from Daily Mail

63. Monochromatic

64. All the plants!
Questions?
deb@eximiousproductions.com