Design Traditions
18 traditions. All can change.
Traditions aren't rules—they're working agreements that proved useful. When they stop working, they change through demonstrated value.
Attribution Immutability
Creator + timestamp in content hash. Cannot be removed.
Freeform Preservation
Freeform always available. Protocols are options, not mandates.
Track Records Over Credentials
Demonstrated work, witnessed by collaborators.
Witness Validation
Named witnesses making specific attestations.
Temporal Authority
Standing decays without renewal. Recent work matters more.
Workshop/Commons Separation
Private process, public output. Permission boundary.
Local-First Data
Your archive on your machine. Sync on your terms.
Export Freedom
Standard formats. Take everything. No lock-in.
Living Governance
All traditions can change through demonstrated value.
Graduated Trust
Dialogue before dispute. Grace before sanctions.
Challenge Requires Alternative
Can't just disagree. Must propose solution.
Many Centers
Local authority, shared infrastructure. Not one center.
Fork With Dignity
Take your data, your reputation. No hostage situations.
Configuration as Relationship
"I work like Sarah" not 847 preferences.
Beta Testing Required
Features earn their way to stable.
Sunset Paths Exist
Features can be deprecated, retired, rolled back.
Community Votes
Major changes require community approval.
Accessibility Audit
Features must pass accessibility check before stable.
Tradition Lifecycle
Nothing is permanent. Everything earns its place.