Science Gateways allow a wider group of researchers, educators, and students to access resources like supercomputers, expensive instruments, large data sets, sensor networks, etc. Science gateways provide simple web interfaces to such resources such that those who wish to use them do not need advanced computer science skills. Users can focus on the science and research the gateway enables instead of the technology needed to get there. The Science Gateways Community Institute (SGCI) achieved significant outcomes, playing a pivotal role in advancing the landscape of science gateways. SGCI has made substantial contributions in fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability within the science gateway community.

1. Community Engagement and Awareness: 
SGCI successfully elevated science gateway visibility through its comprehensive outreach efforts. In total, 3,664 people attended SGCI events including webinars, training sessions, and the Gateways annual conference. The Science Gateways Catalog, a flagship initiative, is a centralized hub that not only showcases exemplar science gateways but also raises awareness about the underlying technologies. This catalog of 633 gateways and related resources is a valuable resource for potential users and individuals considering building gateways.

2. Consultations and Advancements: 
SGCI performed 159 consultations with groups building and operating science gateways. These ranged in scope from developing sustainability plans to improving user experiences to placing highly-trained software developers on client teams to help solve difficult technical problems. In software development consultations, client exit surveys revealed a notable 6.8x speed-up factor, indicating substantial time and cost savings. This demonstrates the tangible impact of SGCI's technical consultations in streamlining gateway development.

3. Gateways Focus Week Success: 
The Gateways Focus Week stands out as a key initiative, providing essential training for science gateway builders regarding how they ensure serving their intended audiences and how they may fund their efforts when grant funding expires. With 689 participants completing the program, it has become a widely appreciated curriculum. The success of Focus Week has led to many specially commissioned sessions from partners, further extending its reach and impact.

4. Positive Return on Investment (ROI): 
SGCI has demonstrated a positive overall return. The $3,753,914 investment in software development services, coupled with the 6.8x speed-up factor, results in estimated client savings of $21,772,701. Even in comparison to the total investment of $18,030,000 in SGCI, this represents a commendable ROI. The potential for additional savings of $20,325,056 from an additional $3,504,320 of funds for SGCI staff incorporated into other proposals further underscores SGCI's financial impact.

5. Anticipating Computational Science Trends: 
SGCI's initiative to develop the OneSciencePlace platform not only incorporates technical insights from consulting engagements but also addresses emerging trends in computational science. Recognizing the increasing emphasis on FAIR data, SGCI has adapted its approach from merely simplifying access to computing systems to managing vast amounts of scientific content. This content-centric strategic shift positions SGCI at the forefront of advancements in science gateways. With the evolving landscape of scientific research, particularly in the application of artificial intelligence techniques to science problems, managing significant datasets and models used in these techniques demands this content-centric approach.

6. Developing the Future Workforce: 
Science gateways are used extensively in education, providing students with learning experiences through simulations that help them intuitively understand scientific phenomena. In addition, SGCI operated an extensive program that supported 1,334 faculty and students, 972 of which were from traditionally underrepresented groups in science and technology, in settings that included participation in hackathons, mentoring programs, conferences, summer training sessions, and internships. Each of these events was characterized by extensive involvement of gateway community professionals. SGCI enabled the next generation to see that they can have a role in cyberinfrastructure and research by enabling real world experiences, mentoring, and interactions via its programs. 

7. Contributions to the Advancement of Science: 
The impact of research is often measured by the number of research products produced (papers, data sets, websites, articles, blogs, etc.). The SGCI produced 432 research products. In addition, the science gateways with which SGCI consulted have been used extensively in research and education, having been cited more than 63,000 times in the scientific literature. The scientists behind these gateways have over 17,000 publications which have been cited over 711,000 times collectively. These numbers are evidence that science gateways dramatically drive scientific progress forward, and that SGCI has been an instrumental part of making this happen.

SGCI has made substantial strides in advancing science gateways, cultivating a thriving community, and delivering tangible outcomes. From technical consultations to impactful training programs, SGCI has positioned itself as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the scientific community. The positive ROI, success stories, and testimonials underscore SGCI's efficacy in fulfilling its mission. SGCI's adaptability to emerging trends, exemplified by initiatives like OneSciencePlace, ensures its continued relevance in shaping the future of science gateways.

Last Modified: 12/07/2023
Modified by: Michael G Zentner