USGS Software Planning Checklist

Planning the details of your new software project is a great way to get started before you even write the first line of code. Download this table as a checklist of all the steps needed for your software development project.

A category of software called “Scientific Software” is more specifically defined by the USGS Instructional Memorandum on Scientific Software for Release. A column specific to Scientific Software has been added for clarity in complying with policy. To learn more about the Scientific Software IM and what is applicable, visit the Scientific Software Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). A scientific software product may also be integral to or part of another USGS scientific information product or series publication (for example a USGS data release, an Open-File Report or Techniques and Methods series product), or an outside publication such as a journal article. (Refer to Software IM). For more information on USGS Data Release policies and best practices, refer to the USGS Data Management Website.