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Spatial Complexity Metrics: An Investigation of Utility

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 10:16 authored by N E Gold, A M Mohan, P J Layzell
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History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering

ISSN

0098-5589

Issue

3

Volume

31

Page range

203-212

Pages

9.0

Department affiliated with

  • Informatics Publications

Notes

Originality: Spatial complexity metrics (including ones developed by Douce/Layzell) claim benefits over conventional lines of code methods. This work evaluates this claim and adds substantially to the body of empirical evidence on the effectiveness of complexity metrics. Originality derives from the application of theoretical measures to a live, mature software system. Rigour: The work is based upon an empirical study employing a highly evolved, large commercial software system. Two hypotheses are tested using statistical techniques to establish the plausibility of spatial metrics and advantages of complexity metrics. Significance: Analysis shows spatial complexity metrics are plausible and provide behaviour consistent with established laws of software evolution, thus establishing their credibility. The work also shows that spatial complexity largely does not provide metrics which are superior to lines of code, with the exception of the Douce/Layzell metric which provides some greater benefit. The work is also significant in adding a credible case study to the body of empirical software research knowledge. Impact: Further work is being undertaken at King's College London on metrics for program comprehension.

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Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-07

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