Abstract
Computational Core for Plant Metabolomics (CCPM) is a web-based collaborative platform for researchers in the field of metabolomics to store, analyze and share their data. Metabolomics is a newly emerging field of ‘omics’ research concerned with the characterization of large numbers of metabolites using chromatography in conjunction with mass spectrometry and NMR. There is abundant volume and variety in the data, and unpredictable velocity. An interdisciplinary engagement such as this faces significant non-technical challenges solvable using a balanced approach to software management in a university setting to create an environment promoting collaborative contributions. In this paper we report on our experiences, challenges and methods in delivering a usable solution. CCPM provides a secure data repository with advanced toolsfor analysis including preprocessing, pretreatment, data filtration, statistical analysis, and pathway analysis functions; and also visualization,integration and sharing of data. As all users are not equally IT-savvy,it is essential that the user interface is robust, friendly and interactive where the user can submit and control various tasks running simultane-ously without stopping/interfering with other tasks. In each stage of its pipeline architecture, users are also allowed to upload external data that has been partially processed till the previous stage in other platforms.Use of open source softwares for development makes the maintenance and development of our modules easier than others which depend on proprietary softwares.