Towards View-based Development of Quantum Software

TL;DR

The paper addresses the challenge of coordinating diverse stakeholder views in quantum software development by proposing a view-based framework built on a Quantum Single Underlying Model (Q-SUM). It outlines a collaborative Quantum IDE that supports multiple views (math, circuits, and code) and enables consistent, bidirectional editing via projection from the Q-SUM, with QASM serving as a bridge to hardware-specific compilation. Key contributions include the Q-SUM concept, an IDE vision that integrates circuit and QPL editing, and a roadmap of research challenges for realizability, extensibility, and usability. This approach aims to enable cross-disciplinary collaboration and platform-agnostic development of quantum software, potentially accelerating practical adoption and hardware integration.

Abstract

Quantum computing is an interdisciplinary field that relies on the expertise of many different stakeholders. The views of various stakeholders on the subject of quantum computing may differ, thereby complicating communication. To address this, we propose a view-based quantum development approach based on a Single Underlying Model (SUM) and a supporting quantum Integrated Development Environment (IDE). We highlight emerging challenges for future research.

Figures (2)

• Figure 1: View-based Quantum Development approach relying on a Q-SUM
• Figure 2: Vision of an IDE for the View-based Quantum Development approach