[Contributor docs] Component Lifecycle proposal

contributor-docs/external-component-status.md

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+# External Component Status
+
+When communicating component readiness to consumers, we provide simple component statuses. We intentially decouple this from the accessibility status.
+
+`Ready` + `New` > `Deprecating` > `Deprecated`
+
+## New
+
+**Description**: The component is new and ready to use, with ongoing support and potential changes.
+
+**Criteria**:
+
+- Used in production environments.
+- Initial feedback incorporated.
+- Documentation in progress.
+
+**Activities**:
+
+- Iterative improvements based on feedback.
+- Communicating upcoming changes to users.
+- Supporting users in adopting the new component.
+
+**Note:** The component should only be labelled as new in a new release and should be migrated to ready on a specific target date, usually within 3 months.
+
+## Ready
+
+**Description**: The component is ready for use.
+
+**Criteria**:
+
+- Implemented and tested.
+- Comprehensive documentation available.
+- Meets accessibility requirements.
+
+**Activities**:
+
+- Finalized design and development.
+- Tested in various environments.
+- Providing ongoing support and guidance.
+
+## Deprecating
+
+**Description**: The component is no longer recommended but can be used as needed with caution, with plans to be deprecated in a future major release.
+
+**Criteria**:
+
+- Documentation includes alternative components or patterns.
+- Deprecation date announced.
+- Migration paths considered and documentation started.
+
+**Activities**:
+
+- Communicating deprecation plans to users.
+- Supporting the component until its removal.
+- Encouraging migration to new components.
+
+## Deprecated
+
+**Description**: The component is no longer recommended and should not be used. Officially deprecated in a major release. Users need to migrate to alternatives.
+
+**Criteria**:
+
+- Deprecation warnings included in the component.
+- Removal date announced and documented.
+- Migration paths provided and accessible.
+
+**Activities**:
+
+- Removing the component from the design system.
+- Assisting users in migrating to alternative components.
+- Updating documentation to reflect the deprecation.