Opening up this discussion following @H_Rook’s tweet.
How can we use the ideas coming from other ecosystems to improve developer visibility in Polygon and Polygon governance more specifically?
One idea could be to adopt IETF-style working groups. https://ietf.org/process/wgs These have been the standard practice for parallelizing different workstreams and have been used since the mid-80s. Updates feed back into an ‘all hands’ style call, enabling open project management.
Groups could focus on cryptography, networking, and specific components of protocols. This would give our core devs more visibility and allow the community to dive deep into areas they care about.
Discord is also a strong tool for development discussions. For example, could we use this more in the AggLayer, zkEVM, and PoS ecosystems, we could hold real time discussions directly in Discord.
Make sure to read the twitter thread for more ideas and make sure to post yours!
Increasing developers’ impact on protocol governance is crucial for the success and sustainability of any blockchain or decentralized project. Here are some effective strategies to achieve this:
Inclusive Governance Models: Implement governance models that actively involve developers in decision-making processes. This can include decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) where developers have voting rights and a voice in protocol changes.
Transparent Processes: Establish clear and transparent governance processes. Documenting the decision-making process, proposals, and the reasoning behind changes can help developers understand and engage with governance.
Regular Communication: Foster open lines of communication between the development team and the community. Regular updates, discussions, and Q&A sessions can help bridge the gap and ensure developers feel their input is valued.
Incentivizing Participation: Offer incentives for developers to participate in governance discussions and proposals. This could be in the form of token rewards, recognition, or even governance roles that provide them with additional influence.
Education and Training: Provide educational resources that help developers understand the governance framework and its implications. This can empower them to engage more effectively and contribute valuable insights.
Feedback Loops: Create mechanisms for developers to provide feedback on governance proposals and decisions. This can be done through surveys, forums, or direct communication channels that allow developers to express their opinions and concerns.
Collaborative Tools: Utilize collaborative tools and platforms where developers can work together on proposals, share ideas, and discuss governance matters. Platforms like GitHub, Discord, or dedicated governance forums can facilitate these discussions.
Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship or buddy programs that pair experienced developers with those new to governance. This can help newcomers understand the governance landscape and encourage their active participation.
Highlighting Developer Contributions: Recognize and celebrate the contributions of developers to governance. Acknowledging their efforts publicly can motivate others to participate and show the community the value of developer input.
Pilot Programs: Test new governance initiatives or changes through pilot programs that allow developers to experiment with governance ideas in a controlled environment. This can help assess their effectiveness before broader implementation.