Kitware Software Sustainability Matrix
How Kitware’s Software Sustainability Matrix Helps Ensure Long-Term Success of Open Source Projects
Open source software has become a vital part of technological innovation across industries, from scientific research to commercial applications. However, maintaining these projects long-term can be challenging, especially as they grow in complexity and scope. To address this, Kitware co-founders Bill Hoffman and Will Schroeder recently presented the Kitware Software Sustainability Matrix (SSM), a strategic framework designed to evaluate and improve the sustainability of software projects, as part of the HPC Best Practices Webinar Series. During their presentation, they explained the matrix and why software sustainability is so important.
The Kitware Software Sustainability Matrix
The SSM is a set of metrics that assesses key aspects of a software project, such as its Impact, Risks, Community, and Technology. By examining these core values, the matrix provides a structured approach to identify areas where improvements can be made, ensuring that software systems remain reliable, adaptable, and valuable over time.
The Critical Need for Sustainable Software
After more than 25 years of experience in developing open source software, Kitware believes that sustainability is critical to the success and longevity of open source projects. It involves not just maintaining the software itself but also fostering a supportive community, managing risks, and keeping up with technological advancements. Through initiatives like the SSM, Kitware aims to create frameworks that help organizations assess and improve these factors, ensuring long-term benefits for users and contributors alike.
Collaborative Efforts and Practical Applications
Kitware’s approach to software sustainability extends beyond internal projects. We have been collaborating with CORSA to develop scorecards for Software Stewardship Organizations (SSOs) and partnering with institutions like the University of Utah to enhance the sustainability of their software systems. Watch the presentation to see specific use cases where the SSM has been applied, demonstrating real-world examples of how these strategies make a difference.
By implementing structured metrics and collaborating across the open source community, Kitware is setting the standard for software sustainability, ensuring that these critical systems continue to thrive and support innovation for years to come. Contact our software experts if you would like to learn how to adopt sustainable software practices into your technology and workflows.