"See Link for More Details": Towards a Pragmatic Open Methodology at NIME

Matthew Hamilton; Michele Ducceschi; Lucia Michielin

Image credit: Matthew Hamilton; Michele Ducceschi; Lucia Michielin

• oral
• Presence: in person
• Duration: 13
• Type: medium
• Session: Togethering

Abstract:

Since its inception, NIME has been committed to open-access research, with a strong tradition of open source practice running through its history. In the context of the NIME 2026 theme of communities, this paper examines current open research practices at NIME and explores how they might be developed to better engage a new generation of creators beyond the conference itself. Through an analysis of NIME 2025 proceedings, we assess how source materials—including software, hardware designs, data, and documentation—are shared, discovered, and cited. The analysis reveals a growing familiarity with open source tools, alongside persistent barriers to discoverability, reuse, and long-term access. Drawing on the documentation and dissemination process of a recent NIME, the paper outlines a deliberate and visible open methodology that treats Digital Musical Interfaces as evolving, reusable research objects for a wider community rather than closed artefacts tied solely to a publication. The paper concludes by reflecting on current limitations and proposes practical ways to lower barriers to reusing and recreating NIMEs, framing ``good-enough’’ open research as a catalyst for further participation, knowledge exchange, and impact beyond the current NIME community.