Dakota
What it is
Dakota is software for optimization and uncertainty quantification using computational models. Its methods cover optimization, parameter estimation, sensitivity or variance analysis, and assessment of uncertainty. Engineering analysts can use it to explore design options and assess confidence in computational predictions. The C++ toolkit connects simulation codes with iterative systems-analysis methods, and its capabilities can be combined in strategies such as hybrid optimization, surrogate-based optimization, and optimization under uncertainty. Dakota lists MPI for parallel distributed-memory communication, and installation instructions include an optional PYTHONPATH setup for the dakota.interfacing Python module. Prebuilt binaries are available for macOS, Windows, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7 and 8; other platforms require building from source. Versions 5.0 and newer are available under the GNU Lesser General Public License. Some optional numerical libraries, including DOT, NLPQLP, and NPSOL/NLSSOL, require separate commercial licenses. Documentation for releases 6.17 and later is provided through the documentation site, while older manuals are available for download. User support is directed to GitHub Discussions, and the project offers introductory and methods-focused screencasts. Dakota is free and has no free trial.
For and against
For
- Free open-source software under the GNU LGPL for versions 5.0 and newer.
- Includes optimization, parameter estimation, and sensitivity analysis methods.
- Connects simulation codes with iterative analysis methods.
- Lists MPI for distributed-memory parallel communication.
- Prebuilt binaries cover macOS, Windows, and specified Red Hat versions.
Against
- Other platforms require building from source.
- Some optional numerical libraries require separate commercial licenses.
- No free trial is offered.
The verdict
Dakota brings multiple computational-model analysis methods into an extensible C++ toolkit. Check platform requirements and any separate licenses needed for optional numerical libraries before choosing it.
Who it suits
Dakota is suited to engineering analysts who use computational models to explore designs or assess confidence in predictions. It may also fit users who need optimization, parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis, or uncertainty methods.
Plans and prices
Dakota
Open-source software under GNU LGPL
Read 3 Oct 2026 · dakota.sandia.gov
On the record
- Advanced strategies
- Dakota capabilities can be combined in strategies such as hybrid optimization, surrogate-based optimization, and optimization under uncertainty.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Analysis methods
- Its methods include optimization, uncertainty quantification, parameter estimation, and sensitivity or variance analysis.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Commercial extensions
- Some optional numerical libraries, including DOT, NLPQLP, and NPSOL/NLSSOL, require separate commercial licenses.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Documentation
- Documentation for releases 6.17 and later is provided through Dakota’s documentation site, while older manuals are available for download.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Intended users
- The project describes its use for engineering analysts exploring designs and assessing confidence in computational predictions.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- License
- Dakota versions 5.0 and newer are available under the GNU Lesser General Public License.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Operating systems
- Prebuilt binaries are available for macOS, Windows, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7 and 8; other platforms require building from source.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Parallel computing
- Dakota lists MPI as a utility for parallel distributed-memory communication.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Project history
- The Dakota project was initiated in 1994.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- Dakota provides software for optimization and uncertainty quantification using computational models.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Python support
- The installation instructions provide an optional PYTHONPATH setup for using the dakota.interfacing Python module.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Software interface
- The C++ toolkit provides an extensible interface between simulation codes and iterative systems analysis methods.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Support
- The project directs users to GitHub Discussions for user support.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
- Training resources
- The project offers screencasts covering introductory use, input files, sensitivity analysis, and sampling.dakota.sandia.gov · read 3 Oct 2026
