1.9 SUMMARY

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1.9 SUMMARY

Software Metrics is simply the application of measurement-based techniques in a software environment. There are many, many ways in which such techniques can be applied and I like to simplify things by considering four main application areas:

  • Cost estimation

  • Project control

  • The use of metrics in the design process

  • Management information.

Some individuals still ask if the use of Software Metrics is justified. I would say to these people that not only is the use justified, but that it is actually inescapable. The reality today is that business managers are no longer willing to allow their IT departments or their software suppliers to operate without normal business controls. This is a new situation for the IT industry—the honeymoon is over! Either we will have such controls forced upon us, or we will grasp the nettle and start to put our house in order before the iron fist lands. Something of a mixed metaphor but it makes the point!

We used to hear it said that the role of Software Metrics was to enable software engineers to understand the process that they were involved in. I claim today that the role of Software Metrics is to enable engineers and managers to survive in today's business environment. Of course that means a greater understanding but it also means that the pressure is on to start to get it right now.

This chapter is intended to give some meaning to the term Software Metrics. We have looked briefly at various areas where the techniques we collectively call Software Metrics can be applied and we have looked at certain basic principles which, I would suggest, should underlie any measurement initiative. Finally, we have discussed some of the reasons why an organization may wish to invest in a Software Metrics program and in this respect the message is simple. The use of Software Metrics does not ensure survival but it improves the probability of survival.



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Software Metrics. Best Practices for Successful It Management
Software Metrics: Best Practices for Successful IT Management
ISBN: 1931332266
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 151
Authors: Paul Goodman

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