# Contributing to Nova‑Z

## Workflow
1. Create a branch from `dev`: `git checkout -b feature/my-change`
2. Make changes + tests; run lint/tests locally
3. Submit PR to `dev` with a clear summary and checklist
4. Address review feedback; keep PR scoped
5. Merge via squash or rebase after approval(s) and green CI
6. Periodically, open PR from `dev` → `main` for release

## PR Checklist
- [ ] Follows best practices and coding guidelines
- [ ] Adds/updates tests
- [ ] Updates docs (README/RUNNING/best practices) if needed
- [ ] No secrets or sensitive data committed
- [ ] Passing CI

## Commit Conventions
Use Conventional Commits, e.g., `feat: add SSE streaming client` or `fix(api): correct status code`.

## Issues & Discussions
- Use GitHub Issues for bugs/feature requests
- Link PRs to Issues
- Use GitHub Discussions for design proposals when appropriate