GitHub issue template contact links to discussions and security
Use GitHub issue-template contact links to push support questions and security reports onto the right routes before they become the wrong kind of issue.
Why this can grow a startup
Not every incoming problem belongs in the public issue queue. A product question may belong in Discussions, and a security report absolutely should not be handled like a normal bug thread. GitHub's `contact_links` setting gives the issue chooser alternate destinations with names, URLs, and short explanations. That turns the chooser into a routing layer instead of a dead-end form list. The result is less queue pollution, fewer accidental public disclosures, and a better first experience for contributors who simply chose the wrong door.
Company example
GitHub's example `config.yml` routes community support to Discussions and security vulnerabilities to the GitHub Security Bug Bounty page using `contact_links` entries with `name`, `url`, and `about` fields.
Source and metric
Source: GitHub Docs: Configuring issue templates for your repository
GitHub contact links let the issue chooser display named alternate routes with a URL and short explanation before an issue is opened.
When to use it
Use this when GitHub, Community, Security is relevant to queue routing, security intake, community support and you can run a bounded test with a free budget.
When not to use it
Do not use it as a substitute for customer evidence, a clear owner, or a measurable stop condition. Local platform rules and market behavior still need checking.
Founder checklist
- Read GitHub Docs: Configuring issue templates for your repository and identify what is directly supported.
- Choose one channel context: GitHub, Community, Security.
- Define the test around GitHub contact links let the issue chooser display named alternate routes with a URL and short explanation before an issue is opened..
- Set an owner, evidence window, and stop condition before launch.
Explore the context
Apply this with an operator
Build creator and community systems around real incentives, trust, and repeat participation.