EP 50: Software Naming

Summary In this episode of the Bioinformatics Lab podcast, Kevin Libuit and Andrew Page discuss the art and challenges of naming bioinformatics tools. They explore various naming conventions, the significance of unique and memorable names, and the creative strategies employed by developers. The conversation also touches on the importance of trademark considerations and the potential pitfalls of naming conflicts in the bioinformatics community. Takeaways Naming bioinformatics tools is crucial for usability. A good name should be unique and memorable. Backronyms are a common naming strategy. Consistency in naming is important for software development. Names can be inspired by personal experiences or local culture. Trademark issues can arise with popular names. Creative themes can enhance the identity of tools. Names should be easy to Google and not offensive. Developers should consider the implications of their chosen names. A well-thought-out name can aid in communication and collaboration.