Building something new and exciting often involves drawing inspiration from existing projects. In the open-source world, this collaborative spirit thrives. But how do you properly acknowledge those influences, especially when it comes to visual design?
A recent question posed by a developer working on a PostgreSQL tutorial site highlighted this very issue. They admired the design of the Advent of TypeScript website, particularly its editor layout, and wanted to incorporate similar elements into their own project. Advent of TypeScript is licensed under AGPL-3.0, which raises some important considerations.
Understanding AGPL-3.0 and Design Inspiration
The AGPL-3.0 license primarily focuses on software, specifically requiring that modifications and derivative works be made available under the same license. When it comes to visual design elements, the situation is a bit less clear-cut. While directly copying and pasting code from the Advent of TypeScript site would require adhering to the AGPL-3.0, taking inspiration from the layout and general design principles doesn’t necessarily fall under the same restrictions.
Think of it like this: you can be inspired by the architectural style of a building without having to build your own house with the exact same blueprints. You’re adapting the general aesthetic, not replicating the specific code.
Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
Even though you’re not obligated to adhere to the AGPL-3.0 in this specific instance, acknowledging your design inspiration is good practice and demonstrates respect for the original creators. It fosters a positive and transparent open-source environment.
So, how can you do it?
- A simple acknowledgment in your project’s README or documentation: This could be a short sentence like, “Design inspired by Advent of TypeScript (advent-of-typescript.com).”
- A dedicated “Credits” or “Acknowledgments” section: If you draw inspiration from multiple sources, a dedicated section provides a clear and organized space to list them.
- A comment in your code’s CSS or relevant styling files: For specific elements where the inspiration is especially direct, a brief comment in your code can be helpful for anyone reviewing your project.
Best Practices for Open Source Inspiration
Navigating open-source licenses and attributions can seem tricky, but it boils down to a few core principles:
- Check the License: Always review the license of any project you’re drawing inspiration from. While design inspiration is less restrictive than code reuse, it’s important to be aware of the license terms.
- Be Transparent: Openly acknowledging your influences builds trust and strengthens the open-source community.
- Give Specifics: Mention the project name and, if possible, link to it directly. This makes it easier for others to understand the connection and appreciate the original work.
By following these simple guidelines, you can create amazing projects while honoring the collaborative spirit of open source.
