Can Statistical Methods Help Solve Problems in Software Measurement?

The study of software metrics involves the creation and analysis of quantitative indices of merit which can be assigned to software, either existing or proposed. These measurements of software provide informational aids to be used in making software lifecycle decisions.A panel commissioned to analyze and evaluate the problems in the emerging field of software metrics has recently issued a report. An overview of the panel’s findings, including how statisticians might be of help in solving some problems in software measurement, is presented.