.. _doc_ways_to_contribute:

How to contribute
=================

Met.3D is free and open-source. 
Most developments so far have been funded in the context of research projects and student theses.
While we will continue along these lines, the future of Met.3D will also depend on volunteer contributions.
We very much appreciate any kind of contribution - they do not need to be large!

There are multiple ways in which you can contribute to Met.3D:

Let us and the world know you're using Met.3D
---------------------------------------------

* Let us know you're using Met.3D, so we know about its use.
* Cite the Met.3D reference documentation in your presentations and publications.


Documentation contributions
---------------------------

* Help improve this documentation, e.g., by improving existing text or by writing new documentation.
* Create tutorials and demos that help new users get started with Met.3D.


Technical contributions
-----------------------

* Report bugs and other issues.
* Help with testing.
* Contribute code (mainly C++ and OpenGL, but also Python), e.g., for bug fixes, improved usability, or entirely new visualization methods.
* Review code contributions.


Scientific collaboration
------------------------

* If you are a scientific researcher and interested in collaborative projects, let's discuss!
* Students: Write your Bachelor or Master thesis about a Met.3D topic!