How do I make a Package Request?

Robin

The maintainers of FreeBSD ports have assumed that a certain software is "abandonware," but a new version was just released recently. It has not been packaged for FreeBSD yet because, perhaps, they still assume it's no longer being developed. I emailed the maintainer of a sister project to request that the software be packaged for FreeBSD (and thus, eventually, GhostBSD). My email was returned because I'm not a member of their mailing list (?).

Should I make the package request here in the Forums then? I am hardly qualified to join a maintainers' mailing list just to ask for a package.

vimanuelt

Robin If the application in question is found in FreeBSD Ports, the appropriate course of action is to join the FreeBSD Ports mailing list and express your concerns there. This ensures that your feedback reaches the maintainers responsible for the Ports collection. Even though a port may be listed as abandoned, one of many maintainers may be able to assist you.

On the other hand, if the issue pertains to a GhostBSD-specific application, available on the GhostBSD GitHub site, you have two options:

Submit a bug report detailing the issue.
Submit a feature request to propose enhancements.

It's important to note that GhostBSD's scope is strictly focused on its own applications, kernel changes, ISO releases, and supporting infrastructure, including forums, the website, social media channels, and build servers. For issues beyond this remit, addressing them through the relevant FreeBSD channels is the best approach.

brianthehughes

I think you're already on the correct path to have it re-instated. Any reason for not sharing the 'certain software' identifier?

If the port of the software does not have a maintainer, I see a couple of options. All of these options involve some amount of advocacy and potentially development effort.

Request original developer include porting as part of the development cycle.

I feel like this would be an easy if the developer is the former maintainer, they can resume the maintainer role. It's possible they are not aware that the ports community (you) value their contribution.

Attempt to port it yourself?!

There's a whole handbook on this topic. Who knows... maybe you're the next port-uoso (virtuoso)!?

Join the appropriate mailing list (perhaps in digest or nomail options) and make the case for someone to revive the port / take over maintenance.

This is questionable. Every month there are lots of ports falling into unmaintained status seeking adoption. The system requires pruning, and this is the method.