[header] How to have a successful open source project [title] Know where to start. [step] Demand is one of the primary components of successful open source projects. If there isn't any demand or need for your initial project idea-or if the current demand is being fulfilled by another project-you might consider joining a different ongoing project or selecting a different problem to focus on. 
[substeps] Many ongoing open source projects accept rigorous community input, so don't be afraid to search for and join an existing version of your project instead. [title] Make sure that your project is necessary.