A Software Management Plan (SMP) is a document that outlines the processes and practices for managing software throughout its lifecycle within a research project or organization. Similar to a Data Management Plan (DMP), an SMP addresses key aspects of software development, maintenance, sharing, and preservation. It is designed to ensure that the software developed during a project is well-documented, reliable, and sustainable, meeting both the immediate needs of the project and future reuse by others.

Key components of a Software Management Plan typically include:

1. Development Practices: Guidelines on coding standards, version control, and testing protocols to ensure high-quality, maintainable software.
2. Licensing and Intellectual Property: Information on the software’s licensing terms and how intellectual property rights will be managed.
3. Documentation: Plans for creating and maintaining comprehensive documentation to ensure that the software can be easily understood and used by others.
4. Sustainability and Maintenance: Strategies for maintaining and updating the software after the initial project ends, including long-term support and potential funding for future development.
5. Sharing and Dissemination: Plans for distributing the software, including open-source release, repository hosting, and guidelines for user support.
6. Compliance and Security: Measures to ensure that the software complies with relevant legal, ethical, and security standards.