Did you know the SSI’s Research Software Camp (RSC) on FAIR software took from 19th until 30th June 2023? From panel discussions to workshops not only in English but also Ukrainian and Spanish, these events explore FAIR software principles and are available for free. Fair principles mean that research outputs should be Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable.
Here at Digital Research Services (DRS) we have repeatedly shed light on FAIR principles for research data; earlier this year Prof Neil Chue Hong introduced us to FAIR software as part of Lunchtime Seminars. However, attending the round table discussion ‘Approaches to the FAIR software principles: opportunities and barriers’ offered us some insights into ongoing discussions among experts on differences between FAIR principles for data vs software, actions needed to put FAIR software into practice and Software Management Plans.
While publishing software as unrestricted as possible opens new possibilities for collaborations, it raises questions on appropriate licencing. This interesting discussion touched upon the critical issue of research assessment and recognition of those contributing to software development for research, software sustainability, long-term management and maintenance and efforts towards training and skills development.
Maria Cruz chaired this discussion with an engaging panel consisting of Rena Bakhshi, Leyla Jael Castro, Tom Honeyman, and Fotis E. Psomopoulos.