> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hurwitzlab.gitbook.io/imicrobe/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hurwitzlab.gitbook.io/imicrobe/getting-started-1/imicrobe-methods-development.md).

# Methods Development

Given the experimental nature of methods in microbiome research, fostering discussions about both molecular and computational protocols towards improved methodologies is vital. iMicrobe partners with protocols.io (<http://www.protocols.io>), a method-centered collaborative platform, to provide guides and sample data sets for popular use cases in microbiome research. These methods are available through the iMicrobe virtual community  (<http://www.protocols.io/groups/imicrobe>) to fuel discussions across the microbiome sciences. Through protocols.io, scientists can also create and share their own protocols and/or groups in the microbiome sciences.

See TUTORIALS section for example protocols and how-to's in the microbiome sciences.