# reusability

> use of existing assets in some form within the software product development process

**Wikidata**: [Q1369184](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1369184)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reusability)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/reusability

## Summary
Reusability is the practice of using existing software assets in some form during the development process. It is a key principle in software development that enhances efficiency and reduces redundancy by leveraging pre-existing code, components, or data. This concept is part of broader adaptability principles and aligns with the FAIR data principles for reusability.

## Key Facts
- Reusability is a subclass of programming principles and adaptability.
- It is defined as the use of existing assets in software product development.
- The term is associated with the FAIR data principle, introduced in 2016.
- Reusability is also known by aliases such as software reusability, code reusability, and 可重用性.
- It is a facet of software development, emphasizing the reuse of source code.
- Reusability has been referenced in academic sources, including a 2013 publication.
- The concept is documented in various language editions of Wikipedia, including Arabic, German, and Chinese.
- Reusability is recognized by libraries and archives, including the Library of Congress and the Bibliothèque nationale de France.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the difference between reusability and adaptability?
A: Reusability specifically refers to the use of existing assets in software development, while adaptability is a broader concept that includes the ability of a system, process, or organization to change to cope with environmental changes.

### Q: How does reusability relate to the FAIR data principles?
A: Reusability is one of the FAIR data principles, introduced in 2016, which emphasizes the importance of making data reusable for future research and applications.

### Q: What are some common aliases for reusability?
A: Reusability is also known as software reusability, code reusability, and 可重用性.

### Q: Where is reusability documented in academic sources?
A: Reusability has been referenced in a 2013 publication from Freebase, a now-defunct database.

### Q: How is reusability recognized in libraries and archives?
A: Reusability is recognized by the Library of Congress, the Bibliothèque nationale de France, and other institutions with specific identifiers.

## Why It Matters
Reusability is significant in software development as it promotes efficiency and reduces redundancy by leveraging existing assets. This principle aligns with broader adaptability concepts, allowing systems and processes to evolve and respond to changes in their environment. By adhering to the FAIR data principles, reusability ensures that software components and data are accessible, interoperable, and reusable, supporting sustainable and scalable development practices. The recognition of reusability in academic and institutional contexts underscores its importance in the field of software engineering and data management.

## Notable For
- Being a subclass of programming principles and adaptability.
- Aligning with the FAIR data principles, introduced in 2016.
- Having aliases such as software reusability and code reusability.
- Being documented in multiple language editions of Wikipedia.
- Being recognized by libraries and archives, including the Library of Congress and the Bibliothèque nationale de France.

## Body
### Definition and Scope
Reusability is defined as the use of existing assets in some form within the software product development process. It is a subclass of programming principles and adaptability, emphasizing the reuse of source code and other software components.

### FAIR Data Principles
Reusability is one of the FAIR data principles, introduced in 2016. The FAIR principles aim to make data findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable, ensuring that data can be effectively utilized in future research and applications.

### Aliases and Recognition
Reusability is also known by aliases such as software reusability, code reusability, and 可重用性. It is recognized by various institutions, including the Library of Congress, the Bibliothèque nationale de France, and the National Library of Israel.

### Academic References
Reusability has been referenced in academic sources, including a 2013 publication from Freebase, a now-defunct database. The concept is also documented in the Quora topic on reusability.

### Wikipedia Documentation
Reusability is documented in multiple language editions of Wikipedia, including Arabic, German, and Chinese. The English Wikipedia page on reusability has been linked to from various sources, indicating its relevance and recognition in the field.

### Institutional Recognition
Reusability is recognized by libraries and archives, including the Library of Congress and the Bibliothèque nationale de France. These institutions have assigned specific identifiers to reusability, further solidifying its place in academic and institutional contexts.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. Quora
3. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
4. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)