Software measure specification

ABSTRACT

This paper introduces the model-order-mapping (MOM) approach for specifying software/document measures. A MOM specification requires that the important attributes of the document be identified, a model that captures the attributes be chosen, and a mapping from the document to the model be specified. A partial ordering on the model must be developed as well as an order-preserving mapping from the model to an answer set. The relationship of the approach to measurement theory is shown. Validation of the MOM specification is presented.Properties of software measures that are guaranteed by a validated MOM specification and those that can be proved from a validated specification are described.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

General Terms:
Design, Measurement, Performance, Theory

Keywords:
foundations of measures, measurement theory, metrics, properties of measures, proving properties, software measures