Processes and Procedures

Processes and Procedures

1. Introduction

The processes and procedures essential for the efficient operation of Unicis are described in this document. It is designed to keep employees and the open-source community connected and productive.

2. Onboarding Process

  • Welcome Packet: New hires receive a link to Unicis Handbook company information, tools setup guides, and contact details.
  • Orientation: Conduct a virtual reading of the handbook to introduce new hires to the team, culture, essential procedures, and communication guidelines.
  • Equipment: Right now, we don’t give new employees any equipment. They are supposed to use their personal devices and adjust to what they need to work without any interference.
  • Training: Provide access to training materials and schedule introductory meetings with relevant team members and leaders.

3. Communication Guidelines

  • Tools: Use company-approved tools for communication see full list at company Tech Stack Applications.
  • Response Time: Aim to respond to messages and emails within 24 hours during business days.
  • Status Updates: Update your status on communication tools to indicate availability (e.g., available, in a meeting, away).
  • Community Interaction: Engage with the community on open-source platforms regularly, addressing issues, providing feedback, and fostering collaboration.

4. Daily Operations

  • Start of Day Check-In: Employees must check in with their team leader or manager at the start of their workday via the designated communication tool.
  • Task Management: Use a project management tool (e.g., GitLab Project and OpenProject) to track tasks, deadlines, and project progress.
  • Breaks: Regular breaks are necessary to maintain productivity and well-being. Take a 5- to 10-minute break every hour.

5. Meetings and Collaboration

  • Scheduling: Use a shared calendar (e.g., Unicis Intranet Calendar) to schedule meetings and avoid conflicts.
  • Agendas: Distribute meeting agendas at least 24 hours in advance. Stick to the agenda to ensure efficient use of time.
  • Minutes: Assign a note-taker for each meeting to document key points and action items. Share minutes within 24 hours post-meeting.
  • Collaboration Tools: Use collaborative tools (e.g., Nextcloud, Draw.IO, Notes, OpenProject) for real-time editing and brainstorming sessions.

6. Community Engagement

  • Contribution Guidelines: Provide clear guidelines for community contributions, including coding standards, documentation practices, and submission procedures.
  • Mentorship: Assign mentors to new community contributors to help them get started and integrate into the project.
  • Recognition: Acknowledge and celebrate community contributions through regular shout-outs, contributor spotlights, and other recognition methods.

7. Performance Management

  • Goals Setting: Set clear, measurable goals for each employee and review them quarterly.
  • Feedback: Provide regular, constructive feedback through one-on-one meetings and performance reviews.
  • Recognition: Recognize and celebrate achievements and milestones during team meetings and via communication tools.

8. Data Security and Confidentiality

9. Technical Support

  • Help Desk: Provide a FreeScout virtual help desk for technical support. Ensure employees and community members know how to submit tickets or request assistance.
  • Response Time: Aim to respond to technical issues within 2 hours during business days.
  • Training: In the Unicis handbook, we provide regular updates regarding new tools, software updates, and best practices.

10. Employee and Community Well-being

  • Mental Health: Encourage employees and community members to take mental health days when needed. Provide access to mental health resources and support.
  • Work-Life Balance: Promote a healthy work-life balance by respecting working hours and discouraging after-hours work.
  • Social Activities: Organize virtual social events (e.g., happy hours, game nights) to build team and community camaraderie.

11. Compliance and Reporting

  • Compliance: Ensure all employees and community members comply with company policies.
  • Reporting: Regularly report on team performance, project status, and any issues to senior management and the community.
  • Audits: Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations.

12. Termination Procedures

  • Notice: Provide reasonable notice for termination or changes in employment status.
  • Equipment Return: Arrange for the return of all company-owned equipment. Provide a pre-paid shipping label if necessary.
  • Exit Interview: Conduct a virtual exit interview to gather feedback and address any final concerns.