- It is free.
- It in platform independent. Runs on Windows, Mac, Linux and others.
- It has enormous functionality. Over 7000 packages extend the functionality - some not yet available in any other software.
- It is open-source. Everyone can take a look at the source code to see the exact computation. This is not the case with commercial software. This also enables to spot bugs and eases verification.
- It facilitates reproducible research. If the raw data is available and code is distributed every- one can reproduce and check the results. This enhances trust in analyses.
- It has state-of-the-art graphics capabilities. You can easily generate publication ready high quality graphics.