[AaronChampagne]

As a designer I like your counterpoint. If I could work with developers like you're describing I'd be interested. I'm nervous about offering help to a project though, because I'm getting the impression that developers are expected to navigate the community solo and I don't know if I can learn the ropes of the community while making a good design for a project.

I've been thinking that maybe a buddy-system might be appropriate for attracting designers.

[Dylanlacey]

I think that's a brilliant idea. ABSOLUTELY brilliant. With a buddy, developers would be able to:

A: Get some greater insight into the reasons workflow is performed like it is. B: Get some insulation from the "Here is the Github. Go, be fruitful" nature of a lot of projects. C: Have someone assist with VC.

The developer would get:

A: Exposure to ideas about design B: Experience in how to effectively communicate with developers C: Experience in HCI and usability

You, sir, have given me an EXCELLENT IDEA. TO THE INTERWEBS!