An open source project may take seed with code, but its chance of long term success depends more on the people involved in the project than on the code itself. That human factor is the focus of Apache's Incubator program, which serves to gently guide projects from proposal to graduation to a full project in Apache. With the help of a mentor like Aaron Farr, a project in Apache's incubator learns about building the kind of community necessary to thrive.

Aaron Farr describes some of the essential ingredients for a successful open source community. Starting with developers who are at the same time the users of their own products, moving on to code structure, development pathways, communication practices, and legal issues, Farr shares his experience with the community-building process, with insights helpful for any open source project aiming to establish long term stability, whether within or outside of Apache.

Along with some warning signs of less promising projects, Farr provides advice on what new or existing projects need to face the challenges of growth. He emphasizes the importance of clear expectations and development pathways, and encourages diversity within a community of developer/users who have learned how to deal with conflict and shifts in technology, culture or experience. Farr underlines the fact that Apache deals with individuals as opposed to companies, as committed individuals are what make up the core of a successful open source community.