diff --git a/paper.tex b/paper.tex index b6879f9..d728629 100644 --- a/paper.tex +++ b/paper.tex @@ -112,6 +112,13 @@ \section{Motivation for central RSE units} Tasks that Research Software Engineers (RSEs) perform include training, \eg{} to improve the quality of code produced by researchers~\autocite{Ostlund2023}, consultation services, \eg{} regarding frameworks or algorithm selection, and the development of existing or new software. For an overview of typical tasks of RSEs and the competencies required, see~\autocite{goth_foundational_competencies_2024}, especially section\ 4.4:\ “RSE tasks and responsibilities”. +Research software is getting increasingly complex. +This is partly because the scientific problems being tackled using software +are getting bigger. +However, the software is also expected to be reliable, secure and easy to use. +Handling this increased complexity whilst ensuring timely delivery requires +dedicated RSEs in central RSE units. + \subsection{Pooling: a necessary ingredient} The main focus of this paper lies on central RSE teams since the benefits of RSEs to research in general are described elsewhere, \eg{} in~\autocite{Anzt2021}. The main advantages of central RSE units all stem from the pooling of resources. @@ -142,6 +149,12 @@ \subsection{Pooling: a necessary ingredient} A central RSE team can, due to its proximity to research, much better listen to the wishes expressed by researchers and then help formulate needs and act as a channel to either fulfil them themselves or reformulate and redirect the request. The results are increased research speed and quality and, with that, a higher reputation of the entire research organisation. +Working in a research institution is very stimulating. +However, an embedded RSE can feel very lonely when they do not have anybody to +discuss technical problems. +A central RSE unit also provides a social space for RSEs where this exchange +can easily happen. + \subsection{Pooling: an already tested idea} The idea to pool resources in specific areas within an organisation is not new. For example, similar arguments can and have been made for research data support.