Statistical Software Design and Scientific Breakthrough: Some Reflections on the Future

Abstract

Data analysis software has played a major role in the recent evolution of certain types of scientific disciplines which are characterized by weak theory and intercorrelated independent variables. The evolution of these fields of inquiry has depended as much upon data analysis packages for their progress as astronomy has upon the telescope, cellular biology the microscope, and particle physics the accelerator. Three new developments in the capabilities and organization of these software packages are pending or will emerge in the foreseeable future, and are discussed in terms of their potential impact on accelerated scientific discovery in the fields of inquiry that such software packages serve. They are: research-oriented graphics, true conversational analysis, and voice controlled software. These developments may help produce a revolution in scientific insight in a number of disparate fields.