Background: We aim to provide a conceptual view of the origins, development and future directions of FACTOR, a popular free program for fitting the factor analysis (FA) model.
Method: The study is organized into three parts. In the first part we discuss FACTOR in its initial period (2006-2012) as a traditional FA program with many new and cutting-edge features. The second part discusses the present period (2013-2016) in which FACTOR has developed into a comprehensive program embedded in the framework of structural equation modelling and item response theory. The third part discusses expected future developments.
Results: at present FACTOR has attained a degree of technical development comparable to commercial software, and offers options not available elsewhere.
Discussion: We discuss several shortcomings as well as points that require changes or improvements. We also discuss the functioning of FACTOR within its community of users.