BioExcel Whitepaper on Scientific Software Development

The BioExcel consortium develops and maintains several software packages, including GROMACS, HADDOCK, PMX and interfaces for QM/MM using CPMD or CP2K. These codes address different problems, are written in different languages by different sub-teams, delivered to users in different ways, and all have unique challenges in identifying good processes and seeking ways to improve them. They are real-world examples of major complex scientific software packages that have adopted more or less advanced formal software development processes. This white paper presents the experience of the developers and recommendations for development of high-quality software engineering processes.