Docs: Contribution Documentation for packaging Recipes

[Pheoxy]

Description:

We need to create comprehensive and clear documentation to guide contributors through the process of packaging software for SerpentOS. This documentation should cover all necessary steps, best practices, and potential pitfalls to ensure a smooth and efficient packaging process. The goal is to make it easy for new contributors to get started and for experienced contributors to find the information they need quickly.

Documentation Requirements:

1. Introduction to Packaging on SerpentOS:

   • Overview of the packaging system used by SerpentOS.
   • Key differences between SerpentOS packaging and other popular packaging systems.

2. Prerequisites:

   • Required tools and dependencies for packaging.
   • Setting up the development environment.

3. Step-by-Step Packaging Guide:

   • Creating a new package: directory structure, essential files (e.g., package.yml).
   • Writing package metadata: versioning, dependencies, and other metadata fields.
   • Building the package: commands and options.
   • Testing the package: ensuring functionality and compliance with SerpentOS standards.

4. Integration with Release Monitoring:

   • Setting up release-monitoring.org for your package.
   • Creating and configuring the monitoring.yml file.
   • Ensuring that the package stays up-to-date with upstream releases.

5. Best Practices:

   • Coding standards and conventions.
   • Security considerations.
   • Performance optimization tips.

6. Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting:

   • Common errors and how to resolve them.
   • Debugging tips and tools.
   • Links to relevant forums or support channels for additional help.

7. Submitting Packages:

   • Guidelines for submitting packages to the SerpentOS repository.
   • Review process and what to expect.
   • Maintaining and updating packages.

8. Additional Resources:

   • Links to official SerpentOS documentation.
   • Tutorials and example packages.
   • Community resources and contribution guidelines.

Gotchas to Be Aware Of:

• Dependency Management: Ensure that all dependencies are correctly specified and compatible with SerpentOS.
• Version Conflicts: Be cautious of version conflicts with existing packages in the repository.
• Licensing Issues: Verify that all packaged software complies with SerpentOS's licensing policies.
• Build Environment: Differences between local build environments and the official build environment can cause discrepancies.
• Testing Thoroughness: Inadequate testing can lead to unstable or non-functional packages being submitted.
• Release Monitoring Configuration: Incorrect configuration of monitoring.yml can lead to missed updates or false alerts.

Action Items:

• Draft the initial version of the documentation.
• Review and refine the documentation with input from experienced contributors.
• Include detailed steps for setting up and configuring monitoring.yml.
  Docs: Integration with Release Monitoring for Recipes #21
• Publish the documentation on the official SerpentOS repository.
• Create a feedback loop for continuous improvement of the documentation.

Additional Notes:

• Contributors are encouraged to provide feedback and suggest improvements to the documentation.
• Regular updates to the documentation may be necessary to keep up with changes in the packaging system or best practices.

[Pheoxy]

@ikeycode @ermo Also need to link this into macros for moss and boulder?

[Pheoxy]

Thanks @joebonrichie for mentioning about licenses. #serpent-os/recipes#396 (comment)

The license field must use a SPDX License Identifier.
https://spdx.org/licenses/