Open Source Software in Life Science Research

The book is wide in scope, taking its examples from a variety of sectors and scientific areas. Each article begins by outlining a business problem, and defining the criteria by which assessments were made. The authors present clear guidance as to why the open source solution was chosen, as well as discussing any potential challenges with the approach. The steps taken to build the solution are then provided, forming an indispensable guide to developing a generic product into one tailored for a specific function. Here, the authors also highlight any pitfalls encountered - including superficially simple challenges that actually prove to be complex. An assessment of performance 'in the field' is then provided, including user-testimonials, and any unexpected benefits that arose are highlighted. Finally, a series of recommendations is made, providing practical industry guidance to future development and new opportunities for these platforms. This book, then, provides a mechanism for exchange of ideas and learning for those concerned with the development of informatics systems in applied and industrial settings. It enables readers to identify alternative approaches for building systems of interest, and also introduces them to new applications. The book offers a window into current industry software development practices and is a valuable overview of the range of different applications in use by commercial organisations.