Overview
ISO/IEC 14143-2:2011 establishes a comprehensive framework for evaluating whether software size measurement methods-known as Candidate FSM (Functional Size Measurement) Methods-conform to the requirements of ISO/IEC 14143-1. As part of the ISO/IEC 14143 family of international standards for software measurement, this standard ensures that conformity assessments of FSM methods are objective, impartial, repeatable, complete, and auditable.
ISO/IEC 14143-2:2011 provides a structured process for conformity evaluation, including the creation of evaluation plans, checklists, and reports. By adopting this standard, organizations can ensure consistency and transparency in how software size measurement methods are validated and recognized.
Key Topics
- Conformity Evaluation Framework: The standard details the process to assess whether a software size measurement method satisfies all the requirements of ISO/IEC 14143-1.
- Repeatability and Consistency: ISO/IEC 14143-2:2011 prescribes requirements to ensure that the evaluation process can be consistently replicated by different teams and across various organizations.
- Evaluator Competence: Guidelines are provided for establishing the qualifications and competencies necessary for evaluation teams to conduct conformity assessments impartially and effectively.
- Evaluation Inputs and Documentation:
- Use of the latest editions of ISO/IEC 14143-1 and -2
- Comprehensive documentation for each Candidate FSM Method under evaluation
- Clearly identified versions and references to evaluated methods
- Evaluation Procedure:
- Structured series of steps including cross-referencing method components with ISO/IEC 14143-1 requirements
- Use of checklists to systematically assess requirements and recommendations
- Recording detailed evidence and justifications for conformity or non-conformity
- Reporting: Provides templates and examples for conformity evaluation plans, checklists, and reports to support transparent and auditable assessments.
Applications
ISO/IEC 14143-2:2011 is invaluable for organizations and professionals involved in software measurement, procurement, and quality assurance. Common applications include:
- Selection and Procurement: Enables stakeholders to verify that a software sizing method conforms to recognized international standards before procurement or deployment.
- Third-party Certification: Provides a basis for independent bodies to offer certification services for FSM methods, increasing confidence among software developers and users.
- Internal Quality Assurance: Supports software development organizations in evaluating their measurement practices for reliability and compliance.
- Tool Vendor Assessment: Assists tool vendors in demonstrating the conformity of embedded or standalone software sizing tools.
Using this standard helps reinforce trust in the accuracy and consistency of functional size measurements, supporting better project estimation, benchmarking, and process improvement across the software industry.
Related Standards
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ISO/IEC 14143-1: Definition of Concepts
The fundamental reference for FSM concepts and requirements, forming the basis for conformity evaluations in ISO/IEC 14143-2.
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ISO/IEC 14143-3: Verification of FSM Methods [Technical Report]
Offers guidance for verifying that FSM methods produce reliable and consistent results.
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ISO/IEC 14143-4: Reference Model [Technical Report]
Provides a reference framework to support uniform method development and application.
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ISO/IEC 14143-5: Determination of Functional Domains for FSM [Technical Report]
Aids in identifying application domains for relevant FSM comparisons.
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ISO/IEC 14143-6: Guide for Use of ISO/IEC 14143 Series
Offers direction for practical application and integration of the ISO/IEC 14143 series into organizational measurement processes.
By conforming to ISO/IEC 14143-2:2011, organizations ensure robust, consistent, and globally recognized evaluations of software size measurement methods-critical for effective software project management and benchmarking.