The Next Generation Software Program

The papers in this issue provide an overview of the research fostered by the NSF Next Generation Software (NGS) Program², and some representative projects funded under the program. The NGS Program was announced in October of 1998, and with several calls for proposals between 1998 and 2004 has supported research in two broad technical thrusts. One program component has supported research for developing Technology for Performance Engineered Systems (TPES) for the Design, Management and Runtime Support of Computing Systems and Applications. The second program component, Complex Application Development and runtime Support Systems (CADSS) has sought to create new systems’ software technology, including enhanced compiler capabilities, and tools for the development, runtime support and dynamic composition of complex applications executing on complex computing platforms, such as Computational Grids, assemblies of embedded systems and sensor systems, as well as high-end platforms (Grids-in-a-Box) and special purpose processing systems. Work along the directions of the NGS Program presently continues under the successor program, the NSF Computer Systems Research Program.