= A. Before you file a ticket .... =

== 1. Check the [wiki:ProblemHotlist Problem HotList] ==

The [wiki:ProblemHotlist Problem HotList] contains possible solutions to problems that affect many MacPorts users.  If a solution to your problem listed here works, don't file a ticket.

== 2. Search to see if a Trac ticket has already been filed. ==

Avoid filing duplicate bugs.

== 3. Is the problem an application error and not related to compiling and installing? ==

In general, application bugs should be reported to the developers of the app ("upstream"), not MacPorts.  An application bug that affects a large number of MacPorts users might merit a MacPorts bug for informational purposes only, but this should be done sparingly.

== 4. Is the problem with a 'port upgrade' operation? ==

If so, try a 'port uninstall foo' and then reinstall.  You might also want to run 'port -fR upgrade foo' to rebuild ports depending upon port foo.

= B. How to file a ticket =

Filing tickets with proper form is important.  Here are the most important elements.

== Short summary: ==

This is the most important part.  Don't force people to open the ticket to try to determine whether it is a BUG or RFE, the port version, or get a good idea what the ticket is about.

'''1st summary part:''' ''''' BUG: ''''' / '''''UPDATE: ''''' / '''''NEW: ''''' / ''''' RFE: ''''' — summary line prefix.

 * "BUG:" A problem - a port is not installing functioning as intended.
 * "UPDATE:" A port update patch submission
 * "NEW:" A new port submission
 * "RFE:" A request for enhancement - updates, new ports, or suggestions for how you'd like a port modified.

'''2nd summary part:''' '''''-xx.xx.xx''''' — versions change frequently so list the version!

'''3rd summary part:''' ''Concise description'' — if a BUG or RFE.

Examples for port tickets.

 * BUG: emacs-21.4a build failure on Intel
 * BUG: p5-perlmagick-6.29 configure error - freetype not found
 * UPDATE: fishtail-0.93 -> 0.99
 * NEW: bettyboop-1.2.7
 * RFE: foofah - new port request
 * RFE: gowidget-0.2.5 add a no_x11 variant
 * RFE: defender-0.1.1 alien invader support is off -enable alien invaders

Examples for Base (MacPorts infrastructure) tickets.

 * BUG: base-1.3.0 quits randomly sometimes during 'port install'
 * BUG: base-1.3.2 'port search foo' doesn't find foox, fooy, etc
 * RFE: base-1.3.2 add a Portfile keyword to chop onions

== Assign to: ==
Select the maintainer of the port as listed by the Portfile "maintainers" keyword.  If the maintainer is not on the list, place his/her email address in the Cc: field so they will be notified.

== Type: ==
 * BUG's = "defects"
 * RFE's = "enhancements"

== Version: ==
Select the MacPorts version you are using.

== Cc: ==
Enter the email address of those you wish to be cc a copy of the ticket.

== Component: ==
Select "ports" or "base" to match the summary line.