Inaugural lecture prof. Patricia Lago – Software and Sustainability

Software and Sustainability

In just half a century, the notion of software (and software engineering) underwent tremendous changes. Software evolved from indivisible part of the computing machine to independent product, and from operated locally to executing globally. In this journey, software systems, services, apps took over important functions of our society: transportation, banking, healthcare are just few of the sectors that rely (and heavily depend) on software working correctly. Software also offers incredible opportunities for business innovation, influences safety and human wellbeing.

At the same time, software became increasingly complex and pervasive: we notice it just when it fails to work as it should; it runs across geographical borders; it involves ecosystems of multiple organizations; it is shaped by the decisions of the many; and it demands a growing amount of resources including technology and energy. Software can address technical, environmental, economic and social concerns only if we design for it to do so.

This lecture will explore the challenges for software to embrace continuous change while remaining productive; to support innovative processes while decreasing its environmental footprint. In other words, the challenges for software (and software engineering) to become more sustainable.

more info

time: 15 January 2016, 15.45

room: Aula of the VU University Amsterdam, Main Building