From Quantum Mechanics to Quantum Software Engineering: A Historical Review

TL;DR

This paper reviews the historical development of Quantum Computing and Quantum Software Engineering, highlighting their evolution, current landscape, and future research directions to guide software engineers and scientists.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive historical overview and discusses future directions in Quantum Software Engineering for non-expert audiences.

Findings

Quantum Computing has evolved from theoretical physics to practical technology.

Quantum Software Engineering principles are emerging to optimize interaction with quantum systems.

Future research will focus on developing methodologies for effective quantum software development.

Abstract

Victor Hugo's timeless observation, "Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come", resonates today as Quantum Computing, once only a dream of a physicist, stands at the threshold of reality with the potential to revolutionise the world. To comprehend the surge of attention it commands today, one must delve into the motivations that birthed and nurtured Quantum Computing. While the past of Quantum Computing provides insights into the present, the future could unfold through the lens of Quantum Software Engineering. Quantum Software Engineering, guided by its principles and methodologies investigates the most effective ways to interact with Quantum Computers to unlock their true potential and usher in a new era of possibilities. To gain insight into the present landscape and anticipate the trajectory of Quantum Computing and Quantum Software Engineering, this paper embarks on a journey through their evolution and outlines potential directions for future research. By doing so, we aim to equip readers (ideally software engineers and computer scientists not necessarily with quantum expertise) with the insights necessary to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Quantum Computing and anticipate the trajectories that lie ahead.