Is epidemiology ready for Big Software?

Authors :: Kerr CC
Source :: Pathogens and disease [Pathog Dis] 2019 Feb 01; Vol. 77 (1).
Publication Year :: 2019
Abstract: Large-scale, open-source software projects like EMOD offer a new approach to epidemiological modeling. Built by a team of professional software developers, EMOD offers significant advantages over 'single-use' models designed by individual research teams, including comprehensive documentation, automated testing and extensive support. In addition, as an individual-based model, it allows much greater complexity and flexibility than the compartmental models that are most commonly used in epidemiology. Adopting modern software development practices, as embodied by EMOD, is essential for ensuring that the best models are available to the greatest number of people.<br /> (© FEMS 2019.)