Launchpad is a suite of web-based tools that help people and projects to collaborate in the creation of free software.

Several high-profile free software projects use Launchpad, including:

 * Ubuntu - Linux-based operating system.
 * Bazaar - distributed version control.
 * Zope 3 - web application server.
 * Jokosher - easy to use audio recorder and editor.

== What you can do with Launchpad ==

=== You run a free software project ===

 * Track your project's bugs.
 * Host your project's code and downloadable files.
 * Plan and track work on your project.
 * Translate your project into different languages.
 * Provide an easy way for users to ask for and give help.
 * Package experimental versions of your software for Ubuntu and host them using Launchpad.

=== As an individual ===

 * Report and find out more about bugs in free software.
 * Translate free software into your language.
 * Find the source code for free software projects.
 * Propose and develop ideas for new features in free software projects.
 * Ask for help if you get stuck when using free software.
 * Offer help to other users of free software.
 * Download installers and documentation for free software projects.
 * Package software for Ubuntu and make it available in a Launchpad apt repository.

== Getting started with Launchpad ==

The first step to using Launchpad is to register your user account. Follow our guide to [[CreatingYourLaunchpadAccount|creating your Launchpad account]].

If you want to use Launchpad for your free software project, follow our guide to [[RegisteringANewProject|registering your project]].