Who Should Read This Document
You should read this document if you want to create software using the GNOME platform. Developing with the GNOME platform will help you create consistent applications that integrate well into the user's desktop. This guide will introduce you to the various components of the platform, so you know which libraries can accomplish which tasks. This guide links to additional detailed documentation, so you can explore each component of the platform in more depth.
This guide will also be useful if you are picking a development platform for your software project. It will provide an overview how you can use the GNOME platform to build useful software.
This guide also describes ways of extending the GNOME desktop with plugins, panel applets, and other useful tools. If you want to develop additional functionality to plug into the GNOME desktop, you should read this guide, particularly Chapter 5 ― Desktop Technologies.
If you have existing software that you want to port to the GNOME platform, you should see the online Guide For ISVs in addition to this guide.