Develop case studies that spotlight the foundational role of software in scientific practice

[dr-eric-jensen]

Potential Activity Scope
Develop a set of narrative science/discovery case studies where software was particularly fundamental, focusing on demonstrating the impact of software on scientific practice and impact.

By focusing on case studies where software played a pivotal role, the initiative should investigate both the functional utility of software and its impact on scientific methodologies, outcomes, and value creation.

A rigorous and systematic approach should be employed to select the case studies. Criteria should include the novelty of the software application, the magnitude of its impact on scientific discovery, the relevance to various scientific disciplines, and the potential for scalability and replication across different contexts.

The development of the case studies should involve a comprehensive analysis, integrating quantitative data, qualitative insights, expert opinions, and contextual understanding. This should include in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, a review of relevant literature, and an examination of the software's design, functionality, application, and outcomes.

The case studies should be crafted into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, including scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, educators, and the public. The narratives should be designed to be engaging, informative, and inspiring, weaving together the technical details with the human stories, challenges, and triumphs.

A core focus of the initiative should be to demonstrate the impact of software on scientific practice and impact. This should involve a clear articulation of how the software enabled new ways of thinking, experimenting, collaborating, and innovating, and how it contributed to tangible scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and societal benefits.

A targeted publicity strategy should be employed to disseminate the case studies.

If sufficient resources and know-how are available, it woudl be beneficial to integrate an ongoing evaluation and learning process into the initiative, involving regular monitoring, feedback, reflection, and adaptation. This would ensure that the initiative remains aligned with its objectives, responsive to emerging trends and needs, and continuously improving in its effectiveness and impact.

Potential Objectives

• To develop a set of narrative science/discovery case studies where software was particularly fundamental, highlighting the role of software in scientific practice.
• To investigate both the functional utility of software and its impact on scientific methodologies, outcomes, and value creation.
• To employ a rigorous and systematic approach in selecting case studies, considering novelty, impact, relevance, scalability, and replication.
• To conduct comprehensive analysis integrating quantitative data, qualitative insights, expert opinions, and contextual understanding.
• To craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, weaving technical details with human stories.
• To demonstrate the impact of software on scientific practice, articulating how it enabled innovation and contributed to discoveries and advancements.
• To employ a targeted publicity strategy to disseminate the case studies.
• To integrate an ongoing evaluation and learning process, ensuring alignment, responsiveness, and continuous improvement.

Targeted Impacts

• The initiative could provide valuable case studies that can be used for educational purposes, inspiring the next generation of scientists and software developers.
• The compelling narratives will engage a broad audience, enhancing public awareness and interest in the intersection of software and science.
• The systematic approach to case study selection ensures that the initiative captures a diverse and representative view of the impact of software, enhancing its relevance and applicability.
• The integration of quantitative and qualitative analysis provides a robust and nuanced view of the software's impact, contributing to the credibility and richness of the case studies.
• The publicization strategy ensures that the case studies reach and resonate with key stakeholders (including the general public, researchers, research funders and policymakers), maximizing their impact.
• By demonstrating the tangible benefits of software in scientific practice, the initiative contributes to the recognition, support, and investment in software development within the scientific community.

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This potential activity was curated as part of "Charting the Course: Policy and Planning for Sustainable Research Software," a Sloan Foundation-funded project within URSSI dedicated to supporting the future of research software through evidence-informed policy work (Project contacts are: @danielskatz and @dr-eric-jensen). If you are interested in working on this, please add a comment.