Contributing to GitLab Community Edition

This guide provides information on how to contribute to GitLab Community Edition (CE), a powerful open-source platform for software development.

Understanding the Project

GitLab CE is a comprehensive solution encompassing various components:

• Git repository management: Provides features like branching, merging, and version control.
• Issue tracking: Facilitates bug reporting, feature requests, and project management.
• Continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD): Automates building, testing, and deploying code.
• Wiki: Enables documentation and knowledge sharing within the project.

Getting Started

1. Fork the Repository:

• Visit the GitLab CE repository at https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-ce-.
• Click the Fork button to create a personal copy of the repository.

2. Clone your Fork:

• Open your terminal and navigate to the desired directory.
• Execute the following command, replacing <your-username> with your GitLab username:

git clone [email protected]:<your-username>/gitlab-ce-.git

3. Create a Branch:

• Navigate to your local copy of the repository:

cd gitlab-ce-

• Create a new branch for your changes:

git checkout -b <branch-name>

Contributing

1. Identify a Task:

• Explore the issue tracker for open issues.
• Look for issues labeled “good first issue” or “easy” if you’re new to the project.

2. Make Changes:

• Apply your proposed changes to the codebase.
• Remember to adhere to existing coding style and conventions.

3. Test Your Changes:

• Utilize the available commands to ensure your code works as expected:

make test

4. Commit Your Changes:

• Add all modified files:

git add .

• Commit your changes with a descriptive message:

git commit -m "A brief description of your changes"

5. Push Your Changes:

• Push your branch to your forked repository:

git push origin <branch-name>

6. Create a Merge Request:

• Go to your forked repository on GitLab.
• Navigate to your branch and click New merge request.
• Choose the gitlab-org/gitlab-ce- repository as the target branch and select the main branch as the destination.
• Provide a clear and concise description of your changes.
• Request a review from maintainers or other contributors.

Review and Feedback

• Your merge request will be reviewed by GitLab maintainers.
• Respond to feedback and make any necessary adjustments to your code.
• The maintainers will merge your changes into the main branch once they are satisfied with your contributions.

Additional Tips:

• Familiarize yourself with GitLab’s code of conduct.
• Follow the project’s contribution guidelines (if available).
• Be patient. Contributing to a large project like GitLab CE takes time and effort.
• Stay involved in the community. Participate in discussions and collaborate with other contributors.

Join the Community

• Engage with the GitLab CE community through the GitLab forum and official website.

This guide is intended to help you contribute to GitLab CE, providing a comprehensive path from initial steps to integration. With dedication and commitment, your contributions can be impactful and valuable to the project.