A Comparison Between Foundations of Metrology and Software Measurement

In this paper, we discuss basic issues related to measurements performed in the domains of software engineering and metrology. Similarities and differences are highlighted, with the aim of analyzing the level of knowledge in both domains. A theoretical approach is followed, allowing the proposal of a measurement process model, which is used as a guiding scheme throughout the paper to illustrate peculiarities arising when taking software measurements. Common ground between metrologists and software engineers are described by discussing foundations of measurement in the software context.