A Community Roadmap for Meta-Research and Knowledge Transfer in Software Engineering
Angelika Kaplan, Martin Armbruster, Jan Bernoth, Marco Konersmann, Jan Keim, Ralf Reussner · Repository KITopen (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology) · 2026
This paper presents a strategic direction in terms of work in progress of a newly formed working group focused on meta-research (metascience) in software engineering (SE), with a particular emphasis on meta-research and bridging research and industrial practice. Originating from a collaborative workshop with researchers and practitioners, the paper synthesizes the participants’ contributions and requests into a structured set of topics that reflect current needs, challenges, and future opportunities in empirical and evidence-based SE, reproducibility, open science, and research data infrastructures. The derived roadmap outlines the group’s commitment to foster transparency, sustainability, and methodological rigor in SE research. It also highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in research and practice to ensure relevance and impact. The paper introduces a thematic roadmap derived from the workshop outcomes and positions it as a basis for future joint activities, including publications, tool development, and community engagement. By formulating shared goals and outlining actionable next steps, this paper aims to establish a common understanding and invite broader participation in shaping the future of meta-research and infrastructures in SE, embedded in existing initiatives.