Which one of the following set of attributes should not be encompassed by…

2014

Which one of the following set of attributes should not be encompassed by effective software metrics ?

  1. A.

    Simple and computable

  2. B.

    Consistent and objective

  3. C.

    Consistent in the use of units and dimensions

  4. D.

    Programming language dependent

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Correct answer: D

Answer: Programming language dependent

Explanation: Metrics that are dependent on the programming language should not be encompassed by effective software metrics.

  • Reduces comparability: the same functionality can require vastly different code size or structure in different languages (for example, a concise scripting language vs. a verbose statically typed language).

  • Impairs portability and benchmarking: language-specific measures hinder fair comparisons between projects or teams using different languages.

  • Encourages gaming: teams might choose languages or styles that make metrics look better without improving actual quality.

Why the other attributes are desirable:

  • Simple and computable: makes data collection and validation practical and repeatable.

  • Consistent and objective: reduces subjectivity and supports reliable comparisons.

  • Consistent use of units and dimensions: ensures metric values are interpretable and can be aggregated or compared correctly.

Conclusion: Effective metrics should be language-independent (or normalized across languages) so they remain meaningful, comparable, and resistant to manipulation.

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