From Reproducible Edge–Cloud Experimentation to Real-World Practice: The E2Clab Experience

Abstract

Reproducibility is already difficult in distributed systems; on the computing continuum, it becomes substantially harder. Applications that span sensing devices, edge and fog resources, and cloud platforms must be evaluated across heterogeneous hardware, variable network conditions, cross-layer orchestration decisions, and long-running workflow lifecycles. We use E2Clab as a case study to examine these challenges and their implications for experimental methodology. We explain why reproducible experimentation is harder on the continuum, then revisit E2Clab as an initial response based on explicit modeling of infrastructure, workflow lifecycle, and artifacts. Lastly, we discuss how its evolution toward more realistic application settings can be understood through the lens of Translational Computer Science. We argue that reproducible continuum experimentation requires methods that are rigorous enough for research while remaining adaptable to real-world practice.