Advancing Quantum Software Engineering: A Vision of Hybrid Full-Stack Iterative Model

2024-03-18

arXiv.org

AI Summary

This work addresses key challenges in quantum software development—namely, multi-language integration complexity and intricate quantum-classical co-processing. We propose a DevOps-driven hybrid full-stack iterative model that introduces the first “quantum-agnostic” development paradigm. Leveraging a unified API gateway, hardware abstraction layer, and cross-platform compilation/execution framework, the model seamlessly integrates major quantum toolchains (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS Braket, Azure Quantum). It supports the entire quantum software lifecycle—including coding, testing, deployment, orchestration, translation, and interpretation—thereby enabling conventional software engineers without quantum physics expertise to build maintainable, scalable quantum-classical hybrid systems. The work delivers the first industry-oriented Quantum Software Engineering (QSE) implementation roadmap, significantly improving cross-stack collaboration efficiency and system maintainability. This advances QSE from laboratory research toward rigorous, production-ready engineering practice.

Technology Category

• Machine Learning: Quantum Machine Learning
• Application Domains: Software Engineering
• Knowledge Representation and Reasoning: Qualitative Reasoning

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Experiences and lessons learnt from Web-based algorithms and system deployments
• Search and Retrieval-Augmented AI: Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and multi-modal RAG
• Graph Algorithms and Modeling for the Web: Querying, indexing, and retrieval in Web-related graphs

Abstract

This paper introduces a vision for Quantum Software Development lifecycle, proposing a hybrid full-stack iterative model that integrates quantum and classical computing. Addressing the current challenges in Quantum Computing (QC) such as the need for integrating diverse programming languages and managing the complexities of quantum-classical systems, this model is rooted in the principles of DevOps and continuous software engineering. It presents a comprehensive lifecycle for quantum software development, encompassing quantum-agnostic coding, testing, deployment, cloud computing services, orchestration, translation, execution, and interpretation phases. Each phase is designed to accommodate the unique demands of QC, enabling traditional software developers to engage with QC environments without needing in-depth QC expertise. The paper presents a detailed implementation roadmap, utilizing a range of existing tools and frameworks, thereby making quantum software development more accessible and efficient. The proposed model not only addresses current challenges in quantum software development but also makes a substantial contribution to the field of Quantum Software Engineering (QSE). By proposing a structured and accessible model, it sets the stage for further advancements and research in QSE, enhancing its practicality and relevance in a wide range of applications.

Problem

• Integrating quantum and classical computing in development lifecycle
• Addressing challenges in Quantum Computing programming and system complexity
• Enabling traditional developers to work with QC environments

Innovation

• Hybrid full-stack iterative quantum-classical model
• DevOps-driven quantum software lifecycle
• Quantum-agnostic coding for traditional developers