yay.
K.I.S.S. it first, dont do too much then add to it.
The biggest changes to development this time forward is the 'Design Document'.
The 'Design Document' is essentially the manual/Holy Grail of the mod. It will outline the mods design and game philosophy. In other words, every member of the team will know (before we start) what the mod is supposed to be and how it is getting designed.
This will all but eliminate the back and forth redesigns and arguments that happen with a 'design as you go' environment. People joining the team will also know what the direction of the mod is going and how it will get there....if you know what I mean.
By knowing the plan, we are able to create work groups for each area to ensure production is happening at many levels at the same time. These groups can work independently (for the most part) because they are already aware of the overall design and goal.
Note: As with any creative project, the door is always open to new ideas and amendments. While following the 'Design Document' will keep the team on track, we would be foolish not to be flexible enough to make amendments if those ideas better the mod and fall within the general design.
Think of it as an OCP (Official Community Plan). *google it