Establish and document the versioning system for the autoware_msgs

[xmfcx]

Checklist

• [X] I've read the contribution guidelines.
• [X] I've searched other issues and no duplicate issues were found.
• [X] I've agreed with the maintainers that I can plan this task.

Description

This proposal outlines the need for a defined versioning system for autoware_msgs. It will also cover how various packages and tools that interact with autoware_msgs can adapt to this versioning system.

This proposal serves as a follow-up from:

• https://github.com/autowarefoundation/autoware.universe/issues/3787#issuecomment-1564257931

cc. @mitsudome-r @isamu-takagi @wep21 @kenji-miyake @TakaHoribe @mehmetdogru @kaancolak @miursh

Purpose

• Establish a robust version control mechanism for autoware_msgs to improve source control and make updates transparent and trackable.
• Define a transition process for tools/packages that interact with autoware_msgs to adapt to changes or updates, ensuring smooth integration and avoiding potential conflicts.
• Create a solid foundation for future development and expansion of the autoware_msgs package.

Possible approaches

1. Semantic Versioning (SemVer): Implement Semantic Versioning (major.minor.patch), providing clarity about backward compatibility and allowing easier integration for packages interacting with autoware_msgs.

2. Release Branching: Create release branches for autoware_msgs for each major version. This allows for bug fixes and minor updates to be added to previous versions without disturbing the main development.

Definition of done

• [ ] A comprehensive document outlining the chosen versioning system and the rationale behind it is drafted.
• [ ] Autoware developers have reviewed and approved the proposal.
• [ ] The document is merged into the project repository as an official guide for autoware_msgs versioning system.

[xmfcx]

I will create a PR to start with, any opinion is welcome before or during the PR.

[stale[bot]]

This pull request has been automatically marked as stale because it has not had recent activity.