Manifesto: Rules for standards-makers
Seventeen rules for creating standards that actually work, prioritising interoperability and real-world implementation over theoretical perfection.
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Interop is all that matters
The only measure of a standard’s success is whether different implementations can work together.
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There are tradeoffs in standards
Every decision involves compromise. Accept this rather than seeking impossible perfection.
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Software matters more than formats (much)
Working software that people use trumps elegant specifications that remain unimplemented.
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Users matter even more than software
Ultimately, standards exist to serve people. Keep their needs at the centre of decisions.
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One way is better than two
Multiple ways to do the same thing create confusion and interop problems. Pick one.
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Fewer formats is better
Every new format fragments the ecosystem. Use existing formats when possible.
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Fewer format features is better
Each feature is a potential incompatibility. Include only what’s genuinely necessary.
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Perfection is a waste of time
Good enough and shipping beats perfect and theoretical. Standards improve through use.
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Write specs in plain English
If developers can’t understand the spec, they can’t implement it correctly.
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Explain the curiosities
Document the weird bits and why they exist. Future implementers will thank you.
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If practice deviates from the spec, change the spec
Reality wins. When implementations consistently differ from the spec, the spec is wrong.
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No breakage
New versions must not break existing implementations. Backwards compatibility is sacred.
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Freeze the spec
At some point, stop changing it. Stability enables confident implementation.
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Keep it simple
Complexity is the enemy of interoperability. Resist feature creep.
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Developers are busy
They won’t read long specs or attend endless meetings. Respect their time.
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Mail lists don't rule
The loudest voices on mailing lists don’t represent all implementers. Seek broader input.
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Praise developers who make it easy to interop
Celebrate those who prioritise compatibility. Their work benefits everyone.