Overview
ISO/IEC TR 14143-3:2003 provides a comprehensive framework for the verification of Functional Size Measurement (FSM) methods in software measurement within the field of information technology. Developed by ISO and IEC, this standard focuses on ensuring objectivity, impartiality, consistency, and repeatability in FSM method verification. By addressing key performance properties such as repeatability, reproducibility, accuracy, convertibility, discrimination threshold, and applicability to functional domains, ISO/IEC TR 14143-3:2003 supports organizations in selecting or developing FSM methods that align with their needs for effective software metrics and process improvement.
Key Topics
- FSM Method Verification: Outlines a systematic process for verifying the claims and performance properties made by FSM methods.
- Performance Properties:
- Repeatability: Consistency of measurement results under the same conditions.
- Reproducibility: Ability to achieve consistent results under changed conditions or by different observers.
- Accuracy: Closeness of measurement results to the true value.
- Convertibility: Ease of converting results between different FSM methods.
- Discrimination Threshold: The FSM method's sensitivity to small changes in the software being measured.
- Applicability to Functional Domains: Flexibility of the FSM method across different types of software requirements and domains.
- Verification Process:
- Establishment of a qualified verification team with expertise in software measurement and relevant standards.
- Gathering and preparing required documentation, including FSM method specifications and conformity evidence.
- Development and execution of a verification plan and test requests, aligned with the needs of the verification sponsor.
- Compilation of test results into a formal verification report, enabling informed decision-making.
Applications
ISO/IEC TR 14143-3:2003 is highly valuable for organizations involved in:
- Software Process Improvement: Enhances confidence in FSM data by ensuring the underlying measurement methods are verified for objectivity and reliability.
- Software Project Management: Supports accurate project estimation, benchmarking, and productivity analysis by enabling the selection of appropriate, verified FSM methods.
- FSM Method Development and Evaluation: Provides a reference framework for developers to validate new or customized FSM methods against recognized performance properties.
- Procurement and Consulting: Assists purchasers and consultants in objectively comparing FSM methods and selecting those best suited for specific software measurement needs.
- Certification and Compliance: Establishes a transparent, repeatable process for demonstrating compliance with recognized standards in software size measurement.
By using ISO/IEC TR 14143-3:2003, organizations can ensure that the FSM methods they deploy are suited to their functional domain requirements, deliver consistent results, and meet recognized standards for accuracy and reliability.
Related Standards
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ISO/IEC 14143-1:1998: Software measurement - Functional size measurement - Part 1: Definition of concepts
Defines the foundational concepts and terminology for FSM methods.
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ISO/IEC 14143-2:2002: Software measurement - Functional size measurement - Part 2: Conformity evaluation of software size measurement methods to ISO/IEC 14143-1:1998
Details the process for conformity evaluation of FSM methods.
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ISO/IEC 14143-4:2002: Software measurement - Functional size measurement - Part 4: Reference model
Provides a reference framework for FSM methods.
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ISO/IEC 14143-5: Determination of functional domains for use with functional size measurement
Offers guidance on identifying and applying functional domains in FSM.
By integrating ISO/IEC TR 14143-3:2003 with these related standards, organizations can create a robust measurement environment that continuously improves software quality and performance measurement.
Keywords: functional size measurement, FSM method verification, software measurement standard, ISO/IEC 14143, software project estimation, software engineering metrics, repeatability, reproducibility, functional domains, software quality, software process improvement.