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Over the past few months, we have taken a closer look at 19 research and infrastructure institutions from Germany, Europe and North America: their history, governance models, funding sources, strengths, potential blind spots and opportunities. These institutions vary widely: some have existed for decades, whilst others are still finding their footing; some enjoy secure, long-term funding, whilst others move from one project phase to the next. In this six-part series, we examine the findings from this analysis most relevant to the establishment of a German Research Software Institution.

In pitch decks for new research initiatives, one phrase crops up surprisingly often: “We develop our services together with the community.” In practice, however, this often means that whilst a stakeholder survey is carried out at the outset, the team subsequently continues to work largely independently.

Over the past few months, we have taken a closer look at 19 research and infrastructure institutions from Germany, Europe and North America: their history, governance models, funding sources, strengths, potential blind spots and opportunities. These institutions vary widely: some have existed for decades, whilst others are still finding their footing; some enjoy secure, long-term funding, whilst others move from one project phase to the next. In this six-part series, we examine the findings from this analysis most relevant to the establishment of a German Research Software Institution.

Across the institutions analysed, one challenge appeared again and again: securing sustainable funding. A project grant is launched, a dedicated team builds up expertise, services are developed, and a community takes shape. But then a critical question arises: what happens when the funding runs out?

Over the past few months, we have taken a closer look at 19 research and infrastructure institutions from Germany, Europe and North America: their history, governance models, funding sources, strengths, potential blind spots and opportunities. These institutions vary widely: some have existed for decades, whilst others are still finding their footing; some enjoy secure, long-term funding, whilst others move from one project phase to the next. In this six-part series, we examine the findings from this analysis most relevant to the establishment of a German Research Software Institution.

When designing a new institute, network or consortium, questions of governance and decision-making arise early on. Should there be a central board that concentrates power in the hands of a few? Or should decision-making be delegated as far as possible to member institutions, trusting that local initiatives will collectively add up to a coherent whole?