So here is a slightly different question along these same lines.  From time to time the core team and DotNetNuke Corp develop custom modules to meet a specific need of the project or the Corp.  Sometimes these modules are of a general nature, like the release tracker or roadmap modules, and could be beneficial to the community.  We do not intend to start new projects around these modules or include them in the core release, yet there is some interest from community members with using these modules for their own sites.  These modules would not likely include much in the way of documentation and may not even be examples of best practices.  In several cases I know that they are quick and dirty hacks.  Should we release these modules, knowing they may never receive another update (unless we find internal needs drive additional enhancements)?  If we release them, what are people's expectations?

Joe,

I do not think anything like that should be "released" by the core team.  There has been more than one module developed in the way you describe and "released".

If the code can be made available with clear intentions and management of expectations then that could be acceptable, but I believe anyone releasing code as open source should stand behind what they are releasing and be prepared to help people understand it.  If the project is specifically labled as "sample" code with no version numbers then expectations should not get out of line.

Clear seperation between code for developers and "released" modules for end users needs to be given. 

Just because someone "official" developed it does not mean it should be released through official channels.  I understand there is some presure to make these projects available, but it is the responsibilty of the people in charge to properly manage those pressures so that misconceptions like that with the "what's new" module are not common.

On the other hand, if someone in the community is willing to take the sample code and enhance it, and then support it, then that should be encouraged.  It does not have to be brought back in and made official to encourage further development and support either. 

Is it just me, or does anyone else see what I am saying is exactly how DotNetNuke (IBuySpy Workshop) started out?