Software Reliability Metrics Selecting Method Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process

Abstract

It is very important to select and use appropriate software reliability metrics in software reliability engineering. This paper proposes a framework for selecting software reliability metrics based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and expert judgment. Selecting criteria and the metrics for selection are identified. In each development phase, the grading of metrics according to every criterion are given by experts qualitatively, and then analyzed synthetically to calculate the weights of metrics using AHP. A preliminary application is practised, and the metrics whose weights are top-ranked are recommended and analyzed. Sensitivity and consistency of this method are also analyzed. Compared with general selecting criteria, the method studied in this paper can be used to select appropriate metrics correctly, stably and systemically. Furthermore, the final selection results are accordant with engineering experience, and using the metrics recommended will make software reliability evaluation more reliable and effective