Summary of Changes

This PR revises EVES-004 to include a new role, Approvers, and to ensure alignment with the latest EVES-001 requirements. The key modifications are:

1. Integration of Approvers Role:

   • Defines a smaller subset of Editors, called Approvers, with the authority to finalize EVES proposals at the Candidate stage.
   • Clarifies their voting quorum and decision-making process (requiring at least two Approvers to grant Final status).

2. References to EVES-001:

   • Directly cites EVES-001 in multiple places, ensuring consistency with the established EVES lifecycle and governance structure.

3. Expanded Responsibilities Section:

   • Outlines which tasks are specifically handled by Editors vs. Approvers.
   • Explains how Editors facilitate community engagement, while Approvers vote on EVES finalization.

4. Reworked Governance Model:

   • Emphasizes a modular approach: Editors oversee editorial quality and compliance, while Approvers confirm final readiness.

5. Backward Compatibility:

   • Maintains compatibility with existing processes, stating that no retroactive changes are needed for older EVES.

Why These Changes Are Needed

• Role Clarification: Previous versions of EVES-004 did not specify how the new Approvers role fits within the existing Editor duties.
• Lifecycle Alignment: Ensures this process document fully reflects EVES-001’s lifecycle (Draft → Review → Candidate → Final) and clarifies how final approval is obtained.
• Efficient Governance: Assigning clear responsibilities for both Editors and Approvers helps streamline and formalize the EVES acceptance flow.

How It Works

• Editors remain custodians of the repository and lead the editorial review process for new and existing EVES documents.
• Approvers form a specialized subset of Editors, granting final approval based on quorum rules set by EVES-001.

Impact

• No breaking changes are introduced for existing EVES.
• Current Editors can continue their responsibilities, and community members can better understand the final approval step.
• Offers a clear path to onboard new Editors or elevate existing ones to Approver status.

Next Steps

• Merge the updated EVES-004 into the main branch once approvals are given.
• Encourage contributors to reference these clarified roles whenever proposing or reviewing new EVES.