A Conceptual Framework for Metrics Selection: SMeS

Abstract

Measurement is an emerging field of software engineering. A systematic and efficient measurement process can assist in the production of quality government web applications since it can support planning, monitoring, and improving the software development process. The quality of software products is often measured using the metrics-based method. Various types of software metrics have been suggested in the last three decades to measure software quality, track software progress, estimate effort and certify software products. However, the process of identifying and determining a suitable software metrics is still lacking in term of guidance and structure. Without an effective method to evaluate and select suitable metrics, the time spent for selecting the correct and relevant metrics may offset the advantages of using them. In this paper, using the Evaluation Theory as the base theory and building upon the integration of Goal Question Metric (GQM) approach, a conceptual framework of software metrics selection (SMeS) was proposed. The main elements of the proposed conceptual framework include goal-based metrics selection process integrating with GQM, evaluation criteria, reference standard, and synthesis technic in decision making mechanisms. The integrated framework produces a software metrics selection process which is more structured, transparent, and directive in choosing a set of relevant metrics that may help the organizations’ measurement program. The result from this study improves the existing metrics software selection model and serves as a guideline in implementing a clear and practical software metrics selection.