The purpose of this document is to hold the supplementary and planning material related to the content of the introductory segments of this learning path.
These learning path segments are the first in a series introducing InnerSource. This learning path should be the focal point and shared context of the current public conversation around InnerSource. In order to achieve that goal, this introduction must provide:
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Compelling and clear definitions around 5 key terms:
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Host (team)
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Guest (team)
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Trusted Committer
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Product Owner
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Contributor
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Guardrails for the minimum viable attributes of InnerSource:
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Voluntary Code Contribution
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Prioritized Mentorship
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Interest and anticipation for viewers to watch the remaining learning path segments
Introduce the topic, why it’s important, and what the viewer will learn in this learning path. Including the problem of silos and the metaphor of hammers and spanners as tools.
Share a hypothetical (yet believable) example situation that illustrates the difficulties today in the off-the-shelf process of collaborating across organizational silos. This given situation will be the basis to-which we refer throughout the learning path, most notably when introducing the 5 key terms and heading off misconceptions about InnerSource. Expanding on the example with the challenges of silos and the need for a customer-focused approach.
Show how the players in the example situation can collaborate via InnerSource to overcome their difficulty. Explain the benefits of this approach, including centralizing tools and resources, sharing digital artifacts, and distributing responsibility across departments. While giving this explanation, naturally include clear definitions of the 5 key terms and also wording specifically designed to dispel misconceptions about InnerSource.
Delve into some “gotchas” and more nuanced points about the InnerSource process. Consider strategic use of short and compelling anecdotes to cement key parts of the message further. Discuss resource allocation, collaboration, and the role of InnerSource in breaking down silos. Trend towards including material in this section that further dispels InnerSource misconceptions and also sets the stage for the upcoming segments in the learning path.