A Structured Method for Generating, Evaluating and Using Metrics

摘要

This paper presents a method of generating metrics for a project, organization, process, or product. It first points out that metrics generation starts with a bounding of the area of interest. Then it shows how to examine the outputs associated with the area of interest for metrics on effectiveness that are stated in the general parameters of quantity, quality, cost and time. Next, the paper focuses on the area of interest’s internal activities to develop metrics on efficiency, using the same general parameters. The paper then demonstrates a number of tests that can be used to evaluate the goodness of the metrics for use in a decision process. Finally, the paper discusses how metrics presentation has importance equal to metrics content and shows examples of good and bad ways to present metrics.