MIT Lincoln Laboratory: A Case Study on Improving Software Support for Research Projects

TL;DR

This paper presents a case study on enhancing software support at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, focusing on organizational, cultural, and technical improvements to boost research software development effectiveness.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive approach including centralization, standardization, and stakeholder engagement to improve research software practices and culture.

Findings

Identified project attributes affecting software development

Proposed centralization of support tooling for efficiency

Recommended creating a stakeholder panel for ongoing improvement

Abstract

Software plays an ever increasing role in complex system development and prototyping, and in recent years, MIT Lincoln Laboratory has sought to improve both the effectiveness and culture surrounding software engineering in execution of its mission. The Homeland Protection and Air Traffic Control Division conducted an internal study to examine challenges to effective and efficient research software development, and to identify ways to strengthen both the culture and execution for greater impact on our mission. Key findings of this study fell into three main categories: project attributes that influence how software development activities must be conducted and managed, potential efficiencies from centralization, opportunities to improve staffing and culture with respect to software practitioners. The study delivered actionable recommendations, including centralizing and standardizing software support tooling, developing a common database to help match the right software talent and needs to projects, and creating a software stakeholder panel to assist with continued improvement.