Overview

The SEI conducts research and provides guidance and expertise in software measurement and analysis.

  • Why measure? Because without data, you only have opinions.
  • Why analyze? Because the data you collect can't help you if you don't understand it and use it to shape your decisions.

What is software measurement and analysis?

Measurement and analysis involves gathering quantitative data about products, processes, and projects and analyzing that data to influence your actions and plans.

Measurement and analysis activities allow you to

  • characterize, or gain understanding of your processes, products, resources, and environments
  • evaluate, to determine your status with respect to your plans
  • predict, by understanding relationships among processes and products so the values you observe for some attributes can be used to predict others
  • improve, by identifying roadblocks, root causes, inefficiencies, and other opportunities for improvement

The only sustainable competitive advantage you can achieve is to learn faster than your competitors. — David Kreutzer

What does the SEI do to help?

The Software Engineering Measurement and Analysis (SEMA) initiative performs research to identify trends, improve existing solutions, and promote underused technologies.

We also develop and improve tools and methods used in measurement and analysis.

To accelerate the adoption of proven tools and methods, we provide case studies and work with organizations one-on-one to provide training and consulting.

Not sure where to start? See our getting started page or contact us.

Spotlight on Measurement & Analysis

Building Process Improvement Business Cases Using Bayesian Belief Networks and Monte Carlo Simulation

Many organizations require quality improvement initiatives to be based on quantified business cases. This leads some organizations to start measurement programs to collect data about current performance—a lengthy and expensive process that requires a strong commitment from management. This report...


For more information

Contact Us

info@sei.cmu.edu

412-268-5800