Rsyslog project update: faster reviews, clearer process

Summary
We are tightening our contribution workflow to improve review speed and predictability. Expect reasonable turnaround times, not instant responses. This is rolling out now.

What changes now

Initial PR look: Maintainer aims to glance at each new PR within 3 business days.
AI review on PRs: Runs automatically on open. In our experience it is 90%+ correct and provides actionable items.
Full review trigger: Deeper maintainer review typically follows when CI is green and AI items are fixed or clearly explained.
Old issues policy: No mass closures. We are revisiting older items with AI assist and closing them for the right reasons, often by implementing what is needed.
Labels and dashboards: We are formalizing labels (including good first issue) and lightweight dashboards to make navigation and triage easier. Details will follow in a separate post.
Responsible AI First: We use AI to speed feedback, but only where it adds real value and the results make sense.

How to engage now

Open a PR as early as you like.
Check the AI review and CI output, fix or explain flagged items.
If AI/CI are green and something is still unclear, leave a brief comment and we will jump in.

Scope and expectations

Limited maintainer capacity means we target reasonable timelines, not ultra-fast turnarounds.
Continuous improvements will focus on automation, triage, and clearer contributor guidance.

For a personal, in-depth background and context from the maintainer, see the blog post:
https://rainer.gerhards.net/2025/08/sluggish-responses-and-how-we-plan-to-do-better.html

Suggestions are welcome.