Open for Exchange – FutuRSI at deRSE26

deRSE26 provides an excellent opportunity for the FutuRSI project to present the current state of its work while, more importantly, deepening the dialogue with the community. After months of conceptual development, our focus is on discussing practical needs, expectations, and perspectives from the research software landscape. Rather than merely showcasing results, we aim to engage in a broader conversation about future support structures and coordination mechanisms for research software and Research Software Engineering (RSE) in Germany.

The FutuRSI Booth

Throughout the conference, FutuRSI will host a dedicated booth as a space for direct community input. Should a national RSE institution prioritise advocacy, skill development, career recognition, or knowledge sharing — or something else entirely? Rather than building on assumptions, we want our conceptual work to be grounded in the real experiences and needs of the community it will serve. Participants are invited to vote for the services and priorities they consider most important, contribute additional ideas, or take a postcard to fill in at their convenience. All responses will be analysed and shared openly, and will directly inform FutuRSI’s ongoing work.

Talk: Project Progress & Perspectives

The talk “FutuRSI: One year into conceptualising a German research software institution” presents key outcomes and conceptual reflections from the project. It highlights current challenges within the RSE ecosystem, summarises insights from community engagement and analyses, and outlines possible organisational and governance models. The talk is intended as an invitation to discussion and as a contribution to the broader debate on sustainable research software structures in Germany.

World Café: Community Perspectives on Institutional RSE Support

The World Café offers a structured and interactive format for cross-disciplinary dialogue. Participants rotate between thematic discussion tables addressing topics such as support services, training and skills development, community building, and governance. The aim is to capture practical experiences, expectations, and concerns from the community. The discussions generate valuable qualitative insights that inform and refine FutuRSI’s ongoing conceptual work.

Panel: Structuring the Research Software Ecosystem in Germany

(This panel will be held in German.)

The panel brings together stakeholders from across the research software landscape to discuss strategic aspects of the German ecosystem. The discussion focuses on elements of a coherent national framework, connections to related initiatives, and possible pathways toward sustainable coordination and support structures. By combining institutional and community perspectives, the panel fosters dialogue on shared challenges and long-term development strategies.

FutuRSI views all contributions at deRSE26 as part of an ongoing conversation with the community and looks forward to discussions, feedback, and new perspectives throughout the conference.