Note: This post was written a long time ago. Many of the linked websites no longer exist, or the links now point elsewhere. I considered deleting the post entirely, but I realized it provides some interesting history, so I kept it.
I meet a lot of people who are just getting started with Second Life and one question I get asked a lot is, “How do I find someone to build X for me?” For some reason, people who make stuff for SL are known as “developers,” so this question can also be phrased as, “How do I find an SL developer?”
Linden Lab has a some lists of developers on the official Second Life website:
These lists are an okay starting point, I guess, but they leave a lot to be desired. Where are the standard lists of past projects (portfolios)? What are their credentials? Where are the ratings and reviews by previous clients? What about a standard way to submit a Request For Proposals (RFP)?
I’m not criticizing Linden Lab. They should be commended for having anything at all. I’m criticizing the SL community for not coming up with something better. To get an idea of what’s possible, check out some of the following websites:
I suppose these sites could be used to find SL developers, but I doubt it would work well – because not many SL developers use them (or even know about them).
Why hasn’t someone created an SL-focused website like those listed above? It would probably be a good business.
I should add that there are plenty of other ways to find developers in SL (beyond the two lists maintained by Linden Lab). You can go to places you like in SL, check the “creator” of the objects, and send them an IM. You can use the “Search” button at the bottom of the SL screen to look for terms like “marketing” or “interior design.” You can ask around. You can look at the membership lists of various building and scripting groups. You can go to various SL-related websites, like:
- the official SL forums
- other SL forums (many)
- sldevelopers.com
- slprofiles.com
- SLjobfinder
- SL Job Monster
- Semper International (SL branch)
- Kelly Services (SL branch)
There are also some sites that come closer to being like Guru.com, but have a long way to go:
As you see, there are many ways to find a developer in SL. I hope this summary makes your search a little easier.
Troy McConaghy 
Troy,Yes, the Developer Directory leaves a lot to be desired. The features you mention – past projects (portfolio), ratings and reviews by clients are on the docket to add over the next few months. We’re also adding better ways to search – by language and by capability. Any other suggestions you have for improvement would be welcome.
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