Analysis of the quality measurement processes in software production

The main purpose of this research is to analyse and improve measurement in embedded software development.The research is based on literature analysis done for gaining knowledge and guidelines of successful measurement processes. In addition, the literature study was done in order to outline the reality of software maturity around the world.Based on the software process maturity profile, main problem areas are identified so that improvement activities could be planned.The improvement proposals are presented with details and examples based on given templates.This research gives concrete advice, with templates and examples, to software companies for the improving of their measurement practices.In the given advice, guidelines have been directed for companies where the measurement process maturity level is not very high; in other words, for companies where measurement activities have not been established on the project level.The reason for using a selected perspective was simple: the literature study showed that almost 75 % of software companies' maturity levels are either on the 1st or 2nd level, and on the other hand, under 10 % of companies are either on the 4th or 5th level (Process Maturity Profile, 2000).The research provides a framework of current status definition for developing companies own measurement practices.In addition, two methods - their pros and cons - for developing software measurement activities around the world are presented and compared with each other.At the end of this research, improvement proposals are given with templates and examples for achieving the 3rd measurement maturity level based on Software metrics capability evaluation guide (Budlong, 1995)