How to Join the LFN as a Project

Owned by Casey Cain
Last updated: Mar 06, 2024
2 min read

If you're interested in having your project become a part of the Linux Foundation Networking (LFN), there's a well-defined process to follow. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with LFN Documentation

  1. Read the Introduction to LFN: Understand the mission and vision of LFN.

  2. Upstream First Best Practices Guide: This guide will help you understand how to contribute to existing projects effectively.

  3. LFX for LFN: This tool will be crucial for project tracking and metrics once you're inducted.

  4. Know the Landscape: Review the LF Networking technology landscape!

Step 2: Evaluate Lifecycle States

  1. Go through the various Lifecycle States and Guidelines to understand where your project might fit initially.

  2. Look at the Project Review Process to understand how the TAC manages Project Induction and Health reviews.

  3. Make a note of the Tools and Services available at each lifecycle state, as they will be instrumental in your project's development.

Step 3: Complete your Project Data Template

  1. Create your Project Proposal

  2. Gather all the necessary project information, milestones, and deliverables.

  3. Submit your Project Data Template to the LFN Wiki for review.

Step 4: Preliminary Outreach

  1. Contact the LFN Staff: Send an introductory email to staff expressing your interest in joining LFN. The staff will assist you with completing your Project Data Template and addressing any other onboarding concerns.

    1. pmo@lfnetworking.org

  2. Contact TAC: Send an introductory email to the Technical Advisory Council (TAC) expressing your interest. 

    1. lfn-tac@lists.lfnetworking.org

Step 5: Review Period

  1. The Project Proposal and Project Data Template must be submitted to the TAC at least 2 weeks prior to the Review.

  2. During this time, the TAC will review your project, and you might be asked to provide additional information or clarify existing points.

  3. Engage in any required meetings with the Staff, TAC, or other committees for more in-depth evaluation.

Step 6: Formal Application

  1. Presentation: After the two week review period, present your Project Proposal to the LFN TAC.

  2. Wait for acknowledgment and review by LFN governance bodies, like the TAC or Governing Board.

Step 7: Final Approval and Onboarding

  1. Once approved, you'll be notified by LFN and guided through the onboarding process.

  2. Coordinate with your project LFN Staff on Onboarding your project to tooling and services

  3. Your project will be publicly announced in an LFN blog post, newsletter, or other suitable channels.

Step 8: Post-Induction

  1. You can now fully utilize LFN resources and contribute to the community.

  2. Begin tracking and improving your Community Badges criteria for future recognitions.

  3. Maintain active participation in Community Meetings and other LFN events.

  4. Track your projects activity with LFX Insights

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming an integral part of the LFN community. Good luck!