Toward SALib 2.0: Advancing the accessibility and interpretability of global sensitivity analyses

Abstract

Sensitivity analysis is now considered a standard practice in environmental modeling. Several open-source libraries, such as the Sensitivity Analysis Library (SALib), have been published in the recent past aimed at simplifying the application of sensitivity analyses. Still, there remain issues in software usability and accessibility, as well as a lack of guidance in the interpretation of sensitivity analysis results. This paper describes the changes made and planned to SALib to advance the ease with which modelers may conduct sensitivity analysis and interpret results. We further offer our perspectives from the past 7 years of maintaining SALib for the consideration of those aspiring to launch their own software for sensitivity analysis, develop methodology, or those otherwise interested in becoming involved in a project like SALib. These include the value of a community of practice to foster best practices for sensitivity analysis, the potential for collaboration across different software (for sensitivity analysis) platforms, and the need to specifically support the software development that underpins computational science.