Dear PLC,
==== Background ====
The developer team would like to improve cross platform support, and one measure towards that goal is to improve the access to Windows and macOS machines for core contributors.
With merging the GTK4 branch (yay!) I'd like to give this idea a try.
I've conducted a poll in the developer chat about whose work would benefit from a macOS / Windows machine, results see below.
We require a short device policy for this. It's intentionally simple, as this will be relevant only to people we already trust. I've discussed this with René in advance.
==== Device Policy ====
1) The Inkscape project entrusts the devices to individual contributors, selected by Project Leadership Committee (PLC) vote.
2) The project asks of the contributor to use the hardware primarily in a way that serves the project goal. Within these boundaries, the contributor may use the devices as they see fit. In particular, they have root (or comparable) permission on those devices, and can configure it to their needs.
3) The project asks the contributors to handle the device with care.
4) The project expects the contributor to return / pass on the device once their cross-platform work is finished, or they stop making meaningful and sustained contributions; gatherings like the Inkscape Summit, FOSDEM or LGM are good opportunities for this.
5) The PLC reserves the right to recall / reclaim the device at any time and the project will cover the shipping costs.
6) When returning the device (4 or 5), the contributor is expected to hand over the device in a usable state.
6) The projects accepts that the device may break while in possession of the contributor. Return or warranty policies should be taken advantage of. In the event of willful or clearly negligent damage, the contributor shall replace the device.
==== Selection of recipients & devices ====
From the poll and previous discussion, the following contributors are interested:
- Tavmjong: macOS (Gtk4 development. Cross-platform support)
- pbs3141: Windows (Fixing bugs/missing functionality/bad performance in Inkscape and GTK4, improving Visual Studio integration, investigating bundled Mesa/MoltenVK.)
- VaibhavMalik4187: macOS (GTK4 migration)
- Adam Belis: Windows (Testing on Windows, HiDPI, Touchscreen / Pencil support)
Following this vote, these contributors may choose a device that suits their needs, and that they expect to be useful for other developers in the future. For example, Mac Mini Pro + Keyboard, Surface Pro, or just a general Windows machine with maxed out CPU.
(They may of course decline the above Device Policy, then they won't get a device.)
==== Budget and Formalities ===
Allocate USD 2,000 for each contributor listed above for this purpose.
The SFC will decide how to formally do this - directly buying the devices or reimbursing them.
==== Vote ====
a) Approve the above device policy, and allocate a total of $8,000. Each of the 4 contributors listed above are eligible to be sent / buy & be reimbursed for a device that they choose, with a per-contributor budget of $2,000.
b) Only approve the device policy, I don't agree with the choice of contributors.
c) Don't approve either.
d) Other: ....
Thanks in advance,
Jonathan