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Why code?

A point-and-click program can produce an answer. Code leaves a visible trail.

A script records how data were imported, cleaned, transformed, visualised, and analysed. It allows us to repeat the same steps, modify them, identify mistakes, and share the complete process with others.

This is one reason code fits the dolphin perspective so well. A graph or model summary gives us a view at the surface. The code allows us to dive into how that result was produced.

Using code supports:

• transparency;
• reproducibility;
• scalability;
• collaboration;
• documentation; and
• flexibility.