> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://papers.21n.org/soft/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://papers.21n.org/soft/how-it-works/governance.md).
# Governance
## Mission statement & bylaws
As part of the incorporation process, each SOFT organization is required to charter their mission statement and bylaws. The mission statement serves as an unalterable statement that defines the organization's purpose, values, and principles, and guides its decision-making process. This statement serves as a guiding light for the organization throughout its lifetime, ensuring that it remains true to its core principles and values.
On the other hand, the *definable bylaws* of the organization can be amended based on a democratic voting process that involves core members with voting privileges. This approach ensures that the organization remains flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances while also maintaining transparency and accountability to its members.
### **Standard bylaws**
Standard bylaws are the permanent bylaws to be included by every SOFT organization and which cannot be amended.
1. [Non traditional exit](/soft/how-it-works/sustainability.md#non-traditional-exit)
2. [Life cycle thinking](/soft/how-it-works/sustainability.md#life-cycle-thinking)
3. [SOFT source software](/soft/appendix/terminology.md#soft-source-software)
4. B corp certification
5. Ethical design and ethical marketing
6. Prioritize ethical and responsible practices when developing and deploying technologies, including transparent data collection and handling practices, informed consent, and data security measures
7. Products must consider the potential environmental impacts, including the energy consumption and resource depletion associated with their manufacture and use
8. [Revenue](/soft/how-it-works/sustainability.md#membership-and-voting) should only be generated from direct user payment in return of the service provided. User data should never be sold and therefore revenue should never be generated using user's data as a commodity.
### **Definable bylaws**
Bylaws to be defined during the incorporation of each SOFT org.
1. Mandatory sustainability certifications and schedule
2. Voting thresholds
3. Equity ownership conversion and vesting schedule
## Membership and voting
Detailed voting privileges for specific member types is illustrated in [Membership](/soft/how-it-works/membership.md) section. Privileges will be granted to members based on tenure and contribution.
Example voting system: [Awwwards](https://www.awwwards.com/about-evaluation/)
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