Update (#211)

Created a summary & intro to this section

src/Hiring/index.md

@@ -0,0 +1,5 @@
+# Hiring
+
+For all your hiring needs. This is the section that you will need.
+
+If you feel that we've missed anything or that something is unclear, please reach out to People Ops.

src/Playbooks/How-to-request-goods-or-services.md

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 # How to request goods or services for the organization
 
-Status is a rapidly growing organization with multiple moving parts. As a result, core contributors may need to utilize new tools, technologies, or seek support from consultants and other service providers to support our expansion journey.
+IFT is a rapidly growing organization with multiple moving parts. As a result, core contributors may need to utilize new tools, technologies, or seek support from consultants and other service providers to support our expansion journey.
 
 To ensure that these needs align with the organizational strategy, priorities, and established policies, it is crucial that each core contributor follows the standard process for requesting goods/services.
 

src/SUMMARY.md

@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@
      - [Self-time management](./settling-in/self-time-management.md)
      - [AFK FAQs](./settling-in/afk-faqs.md)
      - [The trial period](./settling-in/the-trial-period.md)
-     - [Evaluation Guide](./settling-in/2023-Self-Evaluation-Guide.md)
+     - [Evaluation Guide](./settling-in/Self-Evaluation-Guide.md)
      - [Your first day, week, month…](./settling-in/your-first-day-week-month.md)
      - [Onboarding buddy](./settling-in/onboarding-buddy.md)
      - [People Operations](./settling-in/people-operations.md)
@@ -21,6 +21,7 @@
      - [Collaboration](./contributing-to-ift/collaboration.md)
      - [Movement Guidelines](./contributing-to-ift/movement-guidlines.md)
      - [Coworking allowance](./contributing-to-ift/coworking-allowance.md)
+     - [AI allowance](./contributing-to-ift/ai-allowance.md)
      - [Location independence](./contributing-to-ift/location-independence.md)
      - [Events and meetups](./contributing-to-ift/events-and-meetups.md)
      - [Travelling for IFT](./contributing-to-ift/travelling-for-IFT.md)
@@ -40,9 +41,6 @@
      - [Expense reimbursements](./finance/expense-reimbursements.md)
 - [Offboarding](./offboarding/index.md)
      - [Device Logistics](./offboarding/device-logistics.md)
-- [Playbooks](./Playbooks/index.md)
-     - [2023 self-evaluation guide](./Playbooks/2023-Self-Evaluation-Guide.md)
-     - [How to request goods and services](./Playbooks/How-to-request-goods-or-services.md)
 - [Team Lead Manual]()
      - [Candidate Tasks](./Team-lead-manual/Candidate-Tasks.md)
 

src/contributing-to-ift/ai-allowance.md

@@ -0,0 +1,34 @@
+# 🤖 AI Allowance
+
+To support core contributors in integrating AI tools into their workflow while maintaining flexibility and cost control, we are introducing a monthly expensable allowance for AI services.
+
+### Benefits 
+
+We are equipping core contributors with a crucial skill set for the future. As AI becomes more integrated into workflows, those who effectively leverage these tools will have a competitive advantage. Key benefits include: 
+
+   * Enhancing core contributor productivity by effectively integrating AI into daily work 
+   * Improving documentation and knowledge sharing within the organization 
+   * Ensuring AI is used responsibly and effectively in alignment with organizational needs
+
+### Allowance Details 
+
+You can expense up to USD 60 per month for AI-related services. This allows core contributors to choose the tools that best fit their needs without incurring unnecessary costs for those who do not use them.
+
+### Expense Guidelines
+
+You can expense: 
+
+   * AI service subscriptions, API credits, or tools directly aiding work productivity 
+   * AI-powered coding assistants, research tools, and documentation aids 
+
+You cannot expense: 
+
+   * Non-work-related AI services
+   * Premium AI features not directly contributing to IFT work 
+   * Hardware or devices for AI-related activities 
+
+Please keep receipts and submit your expenses through Expensify under the Software & subscriptions category following expense reimbursement guidelines. 
+
+If your total expense exceeds the allowance, only claim up to the approved amount. 
+
+If you're unsure whether an expense qualifies, reach out to People Ops for clarification.

src/contributing-to-ift/collaboration.md

@@ -12,8 +12,7 @@ Google suite is used for emails, various types of document collaboration and vid
 
 Google does not align with our values as an organisation and so there is currently a project to move away from Google and start using ProtonMail as our email provider. You will be getting a secondary email address on-top of your existing @status.im address. 
 
-You can read about this change, when to use Gmail vs. ProtonMail along with the more details about the project and timelines.
-https://www.notion.so/Phase-1-Replace-Google-Mail-w-Proton-Mail-34d999eacb27446dacdbb426075fe6da
+You can read about this change, [when to use Gmail vs. ProtonMail](https://www.notion.so/Phase-1-Replace-Google-Mail-w-Proton-Mail-34d999eacb27446dacdbb426075fe6da) along with the more details about the project and timelines.
 
 
 ## Notion

src/contributing-to-ift/events-and-meetups.md

@@ -18,15 +18,11 @@ IFT will consider sponsoring and covering the costs for any online or in-person
 
 > ✨ Remember that when you're at an event, you're an ambassador for IFT’ projects and everyone who shares our values. Don't forget that and spread the word! You never know who's listening and might contribute to IFT thanks to you 🙂
 
+> Always speak to your team lead and discuss the impact going to an event will have on yourself or IFT.  
+
 > 💡Before attending an event, ask your Talent Partner to generate a QR code for our job pages that you can share with anyone interested. 
 
-## Once you have your travel details ready
-
-Submit your individual travel request via [SpiffWorkflow](https://prod.mod.spiff.status.im/).
-
-Here's the instructions on [how to create a travel request](https://www.notion.so/Request-Travel-06db3450784e4320adb425688d8dbe3f?pvs=4#ceb64c141032482cbf5b2b5642414e76).
-
 ## Related articles
 
-👉 Check out [Travelling for Status](../contributing-to-status/travelling-for-status.md) for commute and accommodation guidelines if you need to travel for the event. 
+👉 Check out [Travelling for IFT](../contributing-to-ift/travelling-for-IFT.md) for commute and accommodation guidelines if you need to travel for the event. 
 

src/contributing-to-ift/index.md

@@ -16,5 +16,5 @@ Our aim is to normalise (self-)evaluations and talk about what’s good and what
 * Read [this article](https://medium.com/remote-work/12-qualities-to-look-for-when-hiring-remote-workers-68243ff351b0).It gives a sense of what qualities we expect of our core contributors.
 * For those less experienced in the blockchain/crypto space - jump in and immerse yourself in the ecosystem and get to understand our principles and mission better. This is a big topic, and we don't expect everyone to become an expert. Still, we would be super impressed to see that you're committed to continuously learning and developing your knowledge.
 * Try to model our principles in all that you do at IFT.
-* In order to help with what behaviours create value, here you can see a IFT-specific list of [value-creating behaviours](../contributing-to-status/value-creating-behaviours.md) and some examples in which they could manifest.
+* In order to help with what behaviours create value, here you can see a IFT-specific list of [value-creating behaviours](../contributing-to-ift/value-creating-behaviours.md) and some examples in which they could manifest.
 

src/contributing-to-ift/travelling-for-IFT.md

@@ -6,10 +6,7 @@ Here you'll find helpful information to make your travel abroad experience more
 
 Some of these points might not apply to offsites as they're usually centrally organised with their particular budget.
 
-Your travel budget comes from your project's budget. Raise a travel request [SpiffWorkflow](https://prod.mod.spiff.status.im/) and check out [Events and meetups](../contributing-to-status/events-and-meetups.md) before booking your trip. 
-
-Here's the instructions on [how to create a travel request](https://www.notion.so/Request-Travel-06db3450784e4320adb425688d8dbe3f?pvs=4#ceb64c141032482cbf5b2b5642414e76).
-
+Your travel budget comes from your project's budget. Speak to your team lead and check out [Events and meetups](../contributing-to-ift/events-and-meetups.md) before booking your trip. Your team lead will need to approve the budget before you book! 
 
 ## Before travelling abroad:
 

src/fundamentals/security-guidelines.md

@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ Here you'll find helpful links to resources to protect yourself and the organisa
 
 Above all else, never be afraid to ask for help, ask questions, or report security concerns. Until we have an official infrastructure for support tickets, drop by:
 
-   * #security for more broad, public questions, or
+   * [#security](https://discord.com/channels/973324189794697286/1078729684168233090) for more broad, public questions, or
    * Drop an email to `security@status.im`.
 
 All contributors with an onboarding process will have a security touchpoint with the security team during the first month of their onboarding.
@@ -28,7 +28,15 @@ Phishing attacks are the most common: discord bots, telegram messages, and email
 
 ## Hardware
 
-Check out this [list](https://notes.status.im/zkr20eWFTwGD92xixGX2CA) of essential hardware. Core contributors can expense hardware security keys (yubikeys) and should be used for Github, Gsuite, and Bitwarden.
+Here's a list of recommended hardware for protecting accounts, crypto assets, and data:
+
+   * Security Keys (e.g., YubiKey, Google Titan, OnlyKey) – Provides phishing-resistant 2FA login, useful against remote attacks and credential leaks.
+   * Hardware Crypto Wallets (e.g., Ledger, Trezor, Coldcard) – Stores private keys offline.
+   * Encrypted External Storage (e.g., IronKey) – Secures private key backups and sensitive data with hardware encryption for added protection.
+   * Privacy-Focused Phone (e.g., GrapheneOS Pixel) – Enhances privacy and security with encrypted communication and minimal data tracking.
+   * Faraday Bag (e.g., Mission Darkness) – Shields devices from remote hacking and tracking by blocking all wireless signals.
+
+Core contributors can expense hardware security keys (yubikeys) and should be used for Github, Gsuite, and Bitwarden.
 
 Here's Corey's Status Learn-Up session about [hardware wallets and best practices](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nzqntuFR44&ab_channel=HashingItOut).
 
@@ -43,6 +51,8 @@ You can request an invite in #people-ops. By signing up with the organisation, y
 Learn more about Security @ IFT at:
 
    * [Status Security](https://status.im/security/)
+   * [Notion Security homepage](https://www.notion.so/bee2c4d28567424fae21c3c97e733e46?v=fdc44ecba717474fae7ae65f3097b315)
    * [status-im/status-security](https://github.com/status-im/status-security)
    * [status-im/security-internal](https://github.com/status-im/security-internal)
 
+

src/settling-in/Self-Evaluation-Guide.md

@@ -1,18 +1,20 @@
 ## 💥 Self Evaluation Guide
 
+_This document is intended to be a supporting document to help Core Contributors complete the Self Evaluation Process._
+
+
 ### Writing a self-evaluation
 
-Think of a self-evaluation as an opportunity to reflect and deep dive into your contributions and impact on Status’ projects.  It’s your moment to share **_WHAT_** you do and **_HOW_** you do it. 
+Think of a self-evaluation as an opportunity to reflect and deep dive into your contributions and impact on IFT’ projects.  It’s your moment to share **_WHAT_** you do and **_HOW_** you do it. 
 
 The **_WHAT_** = contribution/impact 
 
 The **_HOW_** = behaviours 
 
-Try to be honest about your contributions and impact on Status’ projects, especially in relation to how your contributions align with Status’ values and mission. It is also important to acknowledge areas where you may need further development or support, and that’s okay. 
+Try to be honest about your contributions and impact on IFT’ projects, especially in relation to how your contributions align with IFT’ values and mission. It is also important to acknowledge areas where you may need further development or support, and that’s okay. 
 
 Aim to provide a balanced evaluation of yourself based on the following attributes and questions.  
 
-
 ### Question Specific Guidance
 
 **<span style="text-decoration:underline;">Contribution</span>**
@@ -46,3 +48,9 @@ Aim to provide a balanced evaluation of yourself based on the following attribut
 * Focus on something specific and prioritise a meaningful commitment to improvements. 
 * Offer context for the areas you want to improve. Explain why these aspects are important and how they impact your role.
 
+**Next steps:**
+
+Please log into Lattice, and complete your self-evaluation. 
+
+Reach out to your People Ops Partner if you have any questions. 
+

src/settling-in/download-status-desktop.md

@@ -2,58 +2,41 @@
 
 ## 📥 Downloading Status
 
-First you will need to download the latest release of Status Desktop from [here](https://github.com/status-im/status-desktop/releases).
+First you will need to download the latest release of Status Desktop.
 
-### On Windows:
-- Locate and double-click the .exe file. (It will usually be in your Downloads folder.)
-- Follow the instructions to install the software.
-
-### On Linux
-- Extract the contents of the tarball with `tar –xvzf StatusIm-Desktop-<version>.tar.gz`
-- Run the extracted `StatusIm-Desktop-<version>.AppImage`
-
-### On Mac:
-- Open Status.dmg 
-- Copy Status.app to the Applications folder
-- You will need to "right click -> open" when running it for the first time (due to new Apple requirements for notarization). You may need to "right click -> open" twice.
-
-It is strongly recommended that you follow the “I’m new to Status” path in the onboarding screens to generate a new seed phrase. After you have signed in for the first time, make sure you back up your seed phase securely. You can do this by clicking on the red 'back up seed phrase' banner that will appear at the top of the window.  
+Follow instructions for your OS:
+- [Download Status for Windows](https://status.app/help/getting-started/download-status-for-windows)
+- [Download Status for Mac](https://status.app/help/getting-started/download-status-for-mac)
+- [Download Status for Linux](https://status.app/help/getting-started/download-status-for-linux)
 
 _Note: Status Desktop is currently in beta and meant for testing by core contributors only. It's not yet ready for real use and makes no claims of security or integrity of funds or data in these builds._ DO NOT USE IT TO STORE ANY ASSETS OF VALUE.
 
-When choosing a username, it is recommended that you use the same username you are using in Discord / Github (this will make it easier for other CC’s to recognise you).
-
-## 🤝 How to join the Status Internal community
-
 When you open Status Desktop for the first time or when you upgrade to 2.32, you’ll be prompted to “Help us improve Status”. This is the opt-in metrics we collect to know how users navigate.
 
 Please decline by pressing “Do not share”
 
+Follow [Run Status app for the first time](https://status.app/help/getting-started/run-the-status-app-for-the-first-time#run-the-status-app-for-the-first-time) and create a profile.
+
+When choosing a username, it is recommended that you use the same username you are using in Discord / Github (this will make it easier for other CC’s to recognise you).
+
+## 🤝 How to join the Status Internal community
+
 1. Go in the Community Portal
-<img width="777" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 34 58 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/cae58560-e802-4cdb-b733-3bd7eb7569c3" />
-
-
+![Status Desktop image 1](<../images/2025_ Download Status Desktop_1.jpg>)
 
 2. Once the Status Community loads, click on its card (For any loading issues, restart the app)
-<img width="762" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 35 44 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/3c3cc54a-0f67-4ac8-ab74-f9d5624aa374" />
+![Status Desktop image 2](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_2.png>)
 
+4. This will open the Status Community in spectator mode. You’ll be able to see some of the previous messages and any new messages coming in the public channels.
+![Status Desktop image 3](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_3.png>)
 
+5. Click the “Join Community” button on the top left.
+![Status Desktop image 4](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_4.jpg>)
 
-3. This will open the Status Community in spectator mode. You’ll be able to see some of the previous messages and any new messages coming in the public channels.
-<img width="765" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 37 00 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/2821ab81-e7e5-45dc-93c7-ebb86014e030" />
+6. This will open a dialogue that shows you a welcome message plus some rules you might need to follow within this community. Click the “Share all addresses to join” button. You can also customize which addresses you want to share. Those addresses are used to check if you have the required tokens to access the private channels. A TokenMaster (they are like admins) will also use that address to airdrop you those tokens:
+![Status Desktop image 5](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_5.png>)
 
-
-
-4. Click the “Join Community” button on the top left.
-<img width="771" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 38 04 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/0ef41da5-ea39-45c9-a850-f60c25cf9ffb" />
-
-
-
-5. This will open a dialogue that shows you a welcome message plus some rules you might need to follow within this community. Click the “Share all addresses to join” button. You can also customize which addresses you want to share. Those addresses are used to check if you have the required tokens to access the private channels. A TokenMaster (they are like admins) will also use that address to airdrop you those tokens:
-<img width="763" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 38 35 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/ef83fb89-f4f8-43c9-85d2-a506f91d7c57" />
-
-
-6. You should be automatically added to the Community after a few minutes.
+7. You should be automatically added to the Community after a few minutes.
 
 You will get access to the private channels once you receive the needed tokens, like the StatusCC token. People Ops will let the TokenMasters know that you joined and it should be done in the next days.
 
@@ -62,15 +45,14 @@ You can still chat in the public channels with other contributors and community
 However, you are not done yet, there is one more thing we need to ask you to do.
 
 7. Go to the “Settings” section in Status Desktop by clicking on the cog wheel in the left hand navigation bar:
-<img width="767" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 39 29 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/8f4c98ad-7be5-47ca-957e-982cef3c8958" />
+![Status Desktop image 6](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_6.jpg>)
 
-8. Select “Advanced” in the settings menu
+9. Select “Advanced” in the settings menu
  
-9.  Scroll down until you see the “Debug” and  “Telemetry” settings. Turn them on by clicking the toggle switches. This will open a dialog that asks you to confirm this action. Confirm this action. It’s really important that all CCs do this so that we can monitor Waku v2’s reliability as part of this dogfooding effort.
-<img width="765" alt="Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 1 40 14 PM" src="https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/e5bd0a07-fcce-4b6c-8437-188783967922" />
+10.  Scroll down until you see the “Debug” and  “Telemetry” settings. Turn them on by clicking the toggle switches. This will open a dialog that asks you to confirm this action. Confirm this action. It’s really important that all CCs do this so that we can monitor Waku v2’s reliability as part of this dogfooding effort.
+![Status Desktop image 7](<../images/2025_Download Status Desktop_7.jpg>)
 
-
-10. Congrats, you are now a Status user, as well as an IFT core contributor 🎉
+11. Congrats, you are now a Status user, as well as an IFT core contributor 🎉
 
 Now let’s get this product polished to the point where we all enjoy using it - please report any bugs you encounter and suggest improvements or new features that you personally need. Instructions for this are below.
 

src/welcome-to-IFT.md

@@ -12,13 +12,13 @@ We support the development, adoption, and accessibility of solutions to digital
 
 ## IFT Services
 
-Learn more about IFT and its programs [here](https://free.technology/)
+Learn more about IFT and its programs [here](https://free.technology/).
 
 ### Vac
 
 Vac is a principle-driven research and development group that provides technical support to each IFT startup. It comprises elite specialists in distributed systems, zero-knowledge proofs, and P2P networking, produces specifications for IFT startups, and undertakes comprehensive protocol testing. Like the IFT and the startups with which it works, a commitment to liberty, censorship resistance, security, privacy, decentralisation, and inclusivity guides Vac’s R&D efforts.
 
-Learn more [here](https://vac.dev/)
+Learn more [here](https://vac.dev/).
 
 ### Finance