Discussion of an improved/replaced ‘ports’ system ran on for a bit on dragonfly.kernel, and Eirik Nygaard reposted an important link: Simon ‘corecode’ Schubert’s extensive writeup.
(Watch for subtle hint!) It’s good enough to serve as a task outline for anyone contemplating ports work. (end hint)
I’ve gone through this document, and it really does seem to be the One True Packaging system. Hopefully someone steps up and implements his great ideas. :-)