What are the most common SCM metrics and how do you choose the right ones for your project?

1 SCM metrics categories

SCM metrics can be divided into different categories based on their purpose, scope, and level of detail. Process metrics measure the performance and quality of the SCM process itself, such as the frequency, duration, and success rate of SCM activities. Product metrics measure the characteristics and attributes of the software artifacts under SCM, including the size, complexity, stability, and modularity of code, documents, and configurations. Lastly, project metrics measure the outcomes and impacts of the SCM process on the software project, such as cost, schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.

2 SCM metrics selection criteria

When selecting SCM metrics, it is important to consider their relevance to the goals and objectives of the SCM process and software project, as well as the needs of stakeholders. Additionally, the metrics should be accurate, reliable, and consistent so that they measure what they are intended to measure without being influenced by external factors. Furthermore, they should be practical, feasible, and cost-effective to collect and analyze, while also providing useful and meaningful information that can support decision making and improvement actions. Finally, the metrics should not be redundant or ambiguous.

3 SCM metrics examples

Different SCM metrics can be used for various purposes and contexts, but some of the most common and useful ones are process metrics such as build frequency, build duration, and build success rate; product metrics like lines of code, code coverage, and code churn; and project metrics like change requests, change backlog, and change effort. Additionally, other metrics such as configuration changes, defect density, defect resolution time, customer satisfaction, merge frequency, merge conflicts, release frequency, release defects, audit frequency, audit findings, code complexity, code duplication, document size, document revisions can be useful as well.

4 SCM metrics best practices

To use SCM metrics effectively and efficiently, it is important to define clear and specific goals and objectives that align with the software project goals. Additionally, identify and prioritize key stakeholders, select a balanced and coherent set of metrics, establish a baseline and benchmarks, collect and analyze data regularly, report and communicate metrics clearly, and review them periodically. Doing so will help you identify improvement actions and feedback loops.

5 SCM metrics challenges and limitations

SCM metrics come with certain challenges and limitations that need to be taken into account. Data quality and availability can be an issue, as the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of the data sources and tools used to collect and analyze them may not always be reliable. Additionally, the SCM metrics may be difficult to interpret or present, so extra context, explanation, or visualization may be required. Lastly, there is also the risk of misuse or abuse of the SCM metrics for other purposes, such as blaming or gaming the SCM process or software project.