Step 1 - Build Mifos X
If you'd like to contribute to Mifos X, instruction to build Mifos X are here. Getting set up may take some time - there are some downloads involved - so you may want to move on to the next steps while it builds.
Step 2 - Find something to work on
If there's something you'd like to fix about a Mifos project, this can be a good place to start.
Before creating a new issue first search JIRA for relevant keywords.
Find a bug we've identified as a good fit for new contributors.
Digging for an issue filed in JIRA can be hard to know where to start, so we've created these bug categories to make getting involved a little easier:
- introductory
- They're all about small changes - sometimes as little as a few lines - but they're a great way to learn about setting up your development environment, navigating JIRA and making contributions to the Mifos codebase.
- mentored
- More challenging, but have a mentor who commits to helping you through the process. Generally, there should be enough information in the issue to get started. Whenever you need help, contact the mentor by email, or in the issue itself, or by email. When you've completed the bug, they will help you submitting your first pull request.
Step 3 - Fix the issue
We leave this in your capable hands. We have some resources to help you here too:
- Ask for help in a comment on the issue
- Check out How to contribute
Step 4 - Get your code reviewed
Once you fix the issue, ask for review. Do this by clicking the Review button on the issue, then setting the assigner flag to unassigned.
Step 4.1 - Respond to the review
For most new contributors - and often for long time members! - the first review will be disallowed. This doesn't mean you've done bad work, but it does mean that there is still some work to do before the code can be pulled. Your work may need some changes - perhaps minor, perhaps major - and your reviewer will give you some guidance about what needs to be done next.
This is an important process, so don't be discouraged! With a long-lived codebase and hundreds of thousands users, the care and attention that goes into helping contributors merge solid changes is the cornerstone of the Mifos project. Make the changes your reviewer asks for; if you're unsure how, be sure to ask! Ask for review again from the same reviewer.
Step 5 - Actually get your code in
Once your changes are reviewed, create a pull request. Make sure you meet all necessary prerequisites before sending the pull request.
Step 6 - Repeat
Thank you. You've fixed your first issue, and Mifos X is stronger for it. But don't stop now, go back to Step 2 and find more you can work on.