Re: Release Org 9.4.2

[Bastien <bzg@gnu.org>]

Hi Pankaj,

Pankaj Jangid <pankaj@codeisgreat.org> writes:

> My question is/are: (1) Why Org is developed outside Emacs, given that
> it is a core/built-in package.

When Org's development switched to Git (13 years ago, from memory),
the release cycle was very short.  Way shorter than the release cycle
of Emacs.  Also, the process for accepting new code contributors was
lighter, even when we asked them to sign the FSF copyright assignment.

In this context, having a separate Git repo was a huge plus, and Org
was not yet included of Emacs.

Then Org became part of Emacs, which was a very important move.

But still, using a separate repo and a separate mailing list was key
in being free to progress at our own pace, which was still quite fast.

Today, the release cycle of Org is longer and that of Emacs shorter.
So yes, it could make sense to envision a destiny similar to Gnus:
Gnus is now developed in Emacs and Org could also be developed in
Emacs.

But (1) it is not only *our* decision, it's also in the hands of the
Emacs maintainers, which may think otherwise; (2) all the consequences
need to be considered, as it is a sensible move; (3) I am on the verge
of stepping down as a maintainer, so it is not a good time for me to
push into a direction or another.

> (2) Are there other packages that follow the same process?

I don't know.  It could be useful to compare Org situation to other
packages but at the same time, Org is quite peculiar.

Anyway, I don't think now is the right time to consider this move, as
there are many more things to achieve. I suggest we discuss this again
later next year.

Thanks,

-- 
 Bastien