Sustain

Episode 275: Richard J. Acton on Research Software Sharing, Publication, & Distribution Checklists (RSSPDC)

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Jun 27, 2025
Richard J. Acton, a research data outputs manager at the Human Developmental Biology Initiative, discusses his innovative checklist designed to enhance software reproducibility. He dives into the importance of open science, addressing challenges like academic demands and the need for better citation practices. Acton highlights how this checklist can boost academic recognition and facilitate collaboration within research communities. He also emphasizes the role of funders and publishers in supporting openness in scientific research.
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ANECDOTE

Richard Acton's Open Source Journey

  • Richard Acton transitioned into open source through bioinformatics and Linux during his biology training.
  • He became an advocate for open science and reproducibility, emphasizing open software for reproducible research.
ADVICE

Checklist Gamifies Software Compliance

  • Use a comprehensive checklist in your repository to improve code citation, reproducibility, and usability.
  • Gamify compliance with tier levels (bronze, silver, gold) to encourage better software practices.
INSIGHT

Value of Citable Research Software

  • Making research software citable boosts academic credit and promotes recognition of technical contributions.
  • Treat software as a separate, citable research output alongside papers and data for more transparent science.
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