Update README and Docs

.github/BRANCH_AND_RELEASE_PROCESS.md

@@ -0,0 +1,88 @@
+# Branch and Release Process
+
+- [Branch and Release Process](#branch-and-release-process)
+  - [Branching Process](#branching-process)
+    - [Branching Methods](#branching-methods)
+    - [Branch Process for This Project](#branch-process-for-this-project)
+      - [Why Pick This Strategy?](#why-pick-this-strategy)
+  - [Release Process](#release-process)
+
+## Branching Process
+
+In software development, selecting an appropriate Git branch strategy is crucial for maintaining code integrity, fostering collaboration, and streamlining project management. A well-defined branch strategy helps teams manage code changes systematically, reducing the risk of conflicts and ensuring that features, bug fixes, and releases are properly isolated.
+
+## Branching Methods
+
+For open-source projects, three popular Git branching strategies are:
+
+1. **Git Flow**:
+
+   Git Flow is a robust branching strategy that uses multiple branches for feature development, releases, and hotfixes. The primary branches include:
+
+   - `main`: Holds the production-ready code.
+   - `develop`: Integrates all completed features and serves as the staging area for the next release.
+   - `feature/*`: Branches off from `develop` for new features.
+   - `release/*`: Branches off from `develop` when preparing a new release.
+   - `hotfix/*`: Branches off from `main` for critical fixes that need to be deployed immediately.
+
+   Git Flow is suitable for projects with regular release cycles and helps maintain a clear and structured workflow.
+
+2. **GitHub Flow**:
+
+   GitHub Flow is a simpler, more streamlined approach ideal for projects that deploy frequently. Its key principles include:
+
+   - A single `main` branch always containing deployable code.
+   - Branches for each feature or bug fix that branch off from `main` and merge back into `main` upon completion.
+   - Continuous deployment from the `main` branch, allowing for fast iterations and rapid delivery of new features.
+
+   This strategy emphasizes simplicity and continuous integration, making it well-suited for fast-paced development environments.
+
+3. **Trunk-Based Development**:
+
+   Trunk-Based Development focuses on keeping a single, stable branch (the "trunk") where all developers commit their code. Key practices include:
+
+   - Small, frequent commits directly to the `main` branch.
+   - Short-lived feature branches that are quickly merged back into `main`.
+   - Emphasis on automated testing and continuous integration to ensure code stability.
+   This strategy aims to minimize merge conflicts and maintain a high level of code quality, promoting rapid feedback and collaboration.
+
+Each of these strategies has its own strengths and is chosen based on the specific needs and workflow of the project.
+
+## Branch Process for This Project
+
+This project's branch process sits between **GitHub Flow** and **Git Flow** by taking the best of both worlds. This projects branching strategy looks like:
+
+Aspects used from **GitHub Flow**:
+
+- A single `main` branch always containing deployable code.
+- Branches for each feature or bug fix that branch off from `main` and merge back into `main` upon completion.
+- Continuous deployment from the `main` branch, allowing for fast iterations and rapid delivery of new features.
+
+Aspects used from **Git Flow**:
+
+- `release-v[0-9]+/*`: Branches off from `main` when preparing a new release.
+- `hotfix/*`: Branches off from `main` (or a release branch) for critical fixes that need to be deployed immediately.
+
+### Why Pick This Strategy?
+
+This is done in order to foster:
+
+- maximum collaboration with external contributors
+  - since we are on GitHub, it's the standard workflow by default. (its why `develop`, or `alpha`/`beta`/etc branches aren't created by default)
+  - it's intuitively obvious where contributions (ie PRs) need to merge with zero background on the project
+  - this puts all bespoke, project, and repo management on the project maintainers
+- forces the project maintainers to embrace CI/CD
+  - `main` must work at all times; therefore, main can be deployed or released at all times
+- things don't always go according to plan
+  - having the branching strategy for releases **Git Flow** helps support of concurrent versions
+  - provides flexibilty to create release trains
+
+## Release Process
+
+The release process for this project is designed to balance the rapid iteration capabilities of **GitHub Flow** with the structured release management of **Git Flow**. Releases are typically created off `main` since we strive to keep backwards compatibility and prevent breaking any interfaces. This implies that releases are basically a single train pushing features out. In terms of new feature release health, you should consider the `main` branch unstable. Consumers of this SDK should **ONLY** ever consume a tagged release on the repo release page.
+
+In the event of a breaking interface change, a `release-v[0-9]+` branch is created off the main branch or at the point of divergence. Additionally, according to semver best practices, the project is accompanied by a major version bump. It's implied that these different interfaces are to be supported until determined by the company SLA.
+
+In scenarios where urgent issues arise, the `hotfix` branch comes into play. A hotfix branch is created off main or the relevant release branch to address critical issues that need immediate attention. After the hotfix is implemented and thoroughly tested, it is merged back into both the `main` and the `release-v[0-9]+` branches to ensure the fix is included in the current and future versions of the project.
+
+This dual approach of leveraging both **GitHub Flow** and **Git Flow** ensures that the project can iterate quickly while maintaining high standards of code stability and release management.

.github/CODE_CONTRIBUTIONS_GUIDE.md

@@ -0,0 +1,130 @@
+# Development Guide
+
+- [Development Guide](#development-guide)
+  - [Welcome](#welcome)
+  - [Preparing Your Local Operating System](#preparing-your-local-operating-system)
+    - [Setting Up macOS](#setting-up-macos)
+    - [Setting Up Windows](#setting-up-windows)
+  - [Installing Required Software](#installing-required-software)
+    - [Installing on macOS](#installing-on-macos)
+    - [Installing on Linux](#installing-on-linux)
+  - [Installing Docker](#installing-docker)
+  - [GitHub Workflow](#github-workflow)
+
+## Welcome
+
+This document is the canonical source of truth for building and contributing to the [Go SDK][project].
+
+Please submit an [issue] on GitHub if you:
+
+- Notice a requirement that this doc does not capture.
+- Find a different doc that specifies requirements (the doc should instead link here).
+
+## Preparing Your Local Operating System
+
+Where needed, each piece of required software will have separate instructions for Linux, Windows, or macOS.
+
+### Setting Up macOS
+
+Parts of this project assume you are using GNU command line tools; you will need to install those tools on your system. [Follow these directions to install the tools](https://ryanparman.com/posts/2019/using-gnu-command-line-tools-in-macos-instead-of-freebsd-tools/).
+
+In particular, this command installs the necessary packages:
+
+```bash
+brew install coreutils ed findutils gawk gnu-sed gnu-tar grep make jq
+```
+
+You will want to include this block or something similar at the end of your `.bashrc` or shell init script:
+
+```bash
+GNUBINS="$(find `brew --prefix`/opt -type d -follow -name gnubin -print)"
+
+for bindir in ${GNUBINS[@]}
+do
+  export PATH=$bindir:$PATH
+done
+
+export PATH
+```
+
+This ensures that the GNU tools are found first in your path. Note that shell init scripts work a little differently for macOS. [This article can help you figure out what changes to make.](https://scriptingosx.com/2017/04/about-bash_profile-and-bashrc-on-macos/)
+
+### Setting Up Windows
+
+If you are running Windows, you will need to use one of two methods to set up your machine. To figure out which method is the best choice, you will first need to determine which version of Windows you are running. To do this, press Windows logo key + R, type winver, and click OK. You may also enter the ver command at the Windows Command Prompt.
+
+- If you're using Windows 10, Version 2004, Build 19041 or higher, you can use Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to perform various tasks. [Follow these instructions to install WSL2](https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wsl/install-win10).
+- If you're using an earlier version of Windows, then create a Linux virtual machine with at least 8GB of memory and 60GB of disk space.
+
+Once you have finished setting up your WSL2 installation or Linux VM, follow the instructions below to configure your system for building and developing code.
+
+## Installing Required Software
+
+After setting up your operating system, you will be required to install software dependencies required to run examples, perform static checks, linters, execute tests, etc.
+
+### Installing on macOS
+
+Some of the build tools were installed when you prepared your system with the GNU command line tools earlier. However, you will also need to install the [Command Line Tools for Xcode](https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/technotes/tn2339/_index.html).
+
+### Installing on Linux
+
+All Linux distributions have the GNU tools available. The most popular distributions and commands used to install these tools are below.
+
+- Debian/Ubuntu
+
+  ```bash
+  sudo apt update
+  sudo apt install build-essential
+  ```
+
+- Fedora/RHEL/CentOS
+
+  ```bash
+  sudo yum update
+  sudo yum groupinstall "Development Tools"
+  ```
+
+- OpenSUSE
+
+  ```bash
+  sudo zypper update
+  sudo zypper install -t pattern devel_C_C++
+  ```
+
+- Arch
+
+  ```bash
+  sudo pacman -Sy base-devel
+  ```
+
+### Installing Go
+
+The Go SDK is written in [Go](http://golang.org). If you need to setup a Go development environment, please follow the instructions in the [Go Getting Started guide](https://golang.org/doc/install).
+
+Confirm that your `GOPATH` and `GOBIN` environment variables are correctly set as detailed in [How to Write Go Code](https://golang.org/doc/code.html) before proceeding.
+
+### Installing Docker
+
+Some aspects of development require Docker. To install Docker in your development environment, [follow the instructions from the Docker website](https://docs.docker.com/get-docker/).
+
+**Note:** If you are running macOS, make sure that `/usr/local/bin` is in your `PATH`.
+
+### Project Specific Software
+
+Once you have the basics, you can download and install any project specific dependencies by navigating to the root your fork and running:
+
+```bash
+make ensure-deps
+```
+
+If you have not forked and `git clone`'ed your fork, please review the next section.
+
+## GitHub Workflow
+
+To check out code to work on, please refer to [this guide][github_workflow].
+
+> Attribution: This was in part barrowed from this [document](https://github.com/kubernetes/community/blob/master/contributors/devel/development.md) but tailored for our use case.
+
+[project]: https://github.com/deepgram-starters/example-starter-plugin
+[issue]: https://github.com/deepgram-starters/example-starter-plugin/issues
+[github_workflow]: https://github.com/deepgram-starters/example-starter-plugin/.github/GITHUB_WORKFLOW.md

.github/CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md

@@ -0,0 +1,131 @@
+# Code of Conduct
+
+The Deepgram developer community is filled with amazing, clever and creative people, and we're excited for you to join us. Our goal is to create safe and inclusive spaces, have meaningful conversations, and explore ways to make sure that every voice is heard and understood.
+
+## Being a Good Community Member
+
+Because we prioritize creating a safe space for our members, we believe in actively working on how we, as individuals, can ensure a positive community environment through our own actions and mindsets.
+
+Every supportive community starts with each member. We feel it’s important to be open to others, respectful, and supportive. As part of the Deepgram community, please begin by thinking carefully about and agreeing with the following statements:
+
+- I will be welcoming to everyone at the table;
+- I will be patient and open to learning from everyone around me;
+- I will treat everyone with respect, because they deserve it;
+- I will be mindful of the needs and boundaries of others;
+
+We strive to create a space where we learn and grow together. Here are some other key things you can do to make the community great:
+
+### BE HUMBLE
+
+People come from all different places, and it’s best not to make assumptions about what they think or feel. Approach others with curiosity and openness. We **all** have a lot to learn from each other.
+
+### BE HELPFUL
+
+If someone asks for help, consider jumping in. You don’t have to be an expert to talk through a problem, suggest a resource, or help find a solution. We all have something to contribute.
+
+### ENCOURAGE OTHERS
+
+There’s no one path to have a career in technology or to this community. Let’s engage others in ways that create opportunities for learning and fun for all of us.
+
+## Our Pledge
+
+Everyone who participates in our community must agree to abide by our Code of Conduct. By agreeing, you help create a welcoming, respectful, and friendly community based on respect and trust. We are committed to creating a harassment-free community.
+
+These rules will be strictly enforced in any and all of our official spaces, including direct messages, social media, and physical and virtual events. Everyone who participates in these spaces is required to agree to this community code. We also ask and expect community members to observe these rules anywhere the community is meeting (for example, online chats on unofficial platforms or event after-parties).
+
+## Our Standards
+
+### BE RESPECTFUL
+
+Exercise consideration and respect in your speech and actions. Be willing to accept and give feedback gracefully.
+
+Don’t make offensive comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, mental illness, neuro(a)typicality, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, immigration status, religion, experience level, socioeconomic status, nationality, or other identity markers.
+
+Additionally, don’t insult or demean others. This includes making unwelcome comments about a person’s lifestyle choices and practices, including things related to diet, health, parenting, drugs, or employment. It’s not okay to insult or demean others if it’s "just a joke."
+
+### BE WELCOMING AND OPEN
+
+Encourage others, be supportive and willing to listen, and be willing to learn from others’ perspectives and experiences. Lead with empathy and kindness.
+
+Don’t engage in gatekeeping behaviors, like questioning the intelligence or knowledge of others as a way to prove their credentials. And don’t exclude people for prejudicial reasons.
+
+### RESPECT PRIVACY
+
+Do not publish private communications without consent. Additionally, never disclose private aspects of a person’s personal identity without consent, except as necessary to protect them from intentional abuse.
+
+### RESPECT PERSONAL BOUNDARIES
+
+Do not introduce gratuitous or off-topic sexual images, languages, or behavior in spaces where they are not appropriate. Never make physical contact or simulated physical contact without consent or after a request to stop. Additionally, do not continue to message others about anything if they ask you to stop or leave them alone.
+
+#### BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR
+
+Contribute to the community in a positive and thoughtful way. Consider what’s best for the overall community. Do not make threats of violence, intimidate others, incite violence or intimidation against others, incite self-harm, stalk, follow, or otherwise harass others. Be mindful of your surroundings and of your fellow participants.
+
+Alert community leaders if you notice a dangerous situation, someone in distress, or violations of this Code of Conduct, even if they seem inconsequential.
+
+## Additional rules for online spaces
+
+For Deepgram’s official online spaces, like our YouTube & Twitch chats, we have some additional rules. Any of the following behaviors can result in a ban without warning.
+
+### DON'T SPAM
+
+Don't spam. We'll ban you.
+
+### KEEP IT LEGAL
+
+If it’s illegal, it’s not allowed on our websites or in our online spaces. Please don’t share links to pirated material or other nefarious things.
+
+### NO TROLLING
+
+Please be earnest. Don’t use excessive sarcasm to annoy or undermine other people. And don’t bait them with bad faith comments or abuse.
+
+### PORNOGRAPHY AND OTHER NSFW STUFF
+
+Please don’t post it or link to it. It doesn’t belong in our online spaces.
+
+### FOUL AND GRAPHIC LANGUAGE
+
+Please do not use excessive curse words. Additionally, do not use graphic sexual or violent language — again, think of our spaces as places for people of all ages.
+
+## Enforcement & Reporting
+
+If you are being harassed by a member of the Deepgram developer community, if you observe someone else being harassed, or you experience actions or behaviors that are contrary to our Code of Conduct, please report the behavior using our [Code of Conduct Report Form](https://developers.deepgram.com/code-of-conduct/report-form/).
+
+### Enforcement Guidelines
+
+Community leaders will follow these Community Impact Guidelines in determining the consequences for any action they deem in violation of this Code of Conduct:
+
+#### 1. Correction
+
+**_Community Impact:_** Use of inappropriate language or other behavior deemed unprofessional or unwelcome in the community.
+
+**_Consequence:_** A private, written warning from community leaders, providing clarity around the nature of the violation and an explanation of why the behavior was inappropriate. A public apology may be requested.
+
+#### 2. Warning
+
+**_Community Impact:_** A violation through a single incident or series of actions.
+
+**_Consequence:_** A warning with consequences for continued behavior. No interaction with the people involved, including unsolicited interaction with those enforcing the Code of Conduct, for a specified period of time. This includes avoiding interactions in community spaces as well as external channels like social media. Violating these terms may lead to a temporary or permanent ban.
+
+#### 3. Temporary Ban
+
+**_Community Impact:_** A serious violation of community standards, including sustained inappropriate behavior.
+
+**_Consequence:_** A temporary ban from any sort of interaction or public communication with the community for a specified period of time. No public or private interaction with the people involved, including unsolicited interaction with those enforcing the Code of Conduct, is allowed during this period. Violating these terms may lead to a permanent ban.
+
+#### 4. Permanent Ban
+
+**_Community Impact:_** Demonstrating a pattern of violation of community standards, including sustained inappropriate behavior, harassment of an individual, or aggression toward or disparagement of classes of individuals.
+
+**_Consequence:_** A permanent ban from any sort of public interaction within the community.
+
+## Attribution
+
+This Code of Conduct is adapted from:
+
+- Contributor Covenant, version 2.0, available at https://www.contributor-covenant.org/version/2/0/code_of_conduct
+- https://eventhandler.community/conduct/, which itself is inspired by Quest, who in turn provides credit to Scripto, the #botALLY Code of Conduct, the LGBTQ in Tech code of Conduct, and the XOXO Code of Conduct.
+
+Community Impact Guidelines, which were copied from InnerSource Commons, were inspired by Mozilla’s code of conduct enforcement ladder.
+
+For answers to common questions about this code of conduct, see the FAQ at https://www.contributor-covenant.org/faq. Translations are available at https://www.contributor-covenant.org/translations.