A Guide to Selecting Software Measures and Metrics

This critique discusses a number of bad measurement practices, hazardous metrics, and significant gaps and omissions in the software literature that neglect important topics in measurement. It highlights the need for accurate and comprehensive data about software development efforts to make comparisons and estimate future projects. The book covers major gaps and omissions, such as underreporting of unpaid overtime and the work of part-time specialists, and provides guidance on how to develop meaningful benchmarks to estimate software development efforts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive critique delves into a range of detrimental measurement practices, hazardous metrics, and significant gaps and omissions in the software literature, which overlook crucial aspects of measurement. The book addresses the major shortcomings that hinder the usefulness of data regarding software development for comparisons or estimating future projects.

One of the most significant gaps identified is the lack of accurate reporting of software development efforts, which, if left uncorrected, can distort data and render benchmarks virtually useless, if not harmful. One of the most prevalent leaks is the underreporting of unpaid overtime, as software development is a highly labor-intensive profession, with many practitioners working extended hours. However, few companies accurately record unpaid overtime, resulting in a significant underestimation of software effort by approximately 15%. Other sources of leaks include the intermittent contributions of part-time specialists who are brought in as needed, accounting for a substantial portion of total software effort on large projects.

The book serves as a valuable resource for software project managers and developers, aiding them in identifying errors in measurements and developing meaningful benchmarks to estimate software development efforts. It examines various aspects that encompass programming languages, development methodologies, software reuse, functional and nonfunctional requirements, industry type, team size and experience. Packed with tables and charts, this book provides a solid foundation for conducting measurements that accurately reflect current software development practices and realities, enabling the establishment of meaningful benchmarks to steer successful software projects.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032476919