BS ISO/IEC 19761:2011

Overview

BS ISO/IEC 19761:2011 is a pivotal standard in the realm of software engineering, specifically focusing on the COSMIC (Common Software Measurement International Consortium) method for functional size measurement. This standard provides a systematic approach to quantifying the functional size of software, which is essential for effective project management, cost estimation, and performance measurement.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines the principles and procedures for measuring software size based on its functional requirements. Key requirements include:

• Functional User Requirements: Identification and documentation of user requirements that define the functionality of the software.
• Measurement Process: A structured process for measuring the size of software based on the COSMIC method, which includes defining data movements and functional processes.
• Measurement Units: The use of COSMIC Function Points (CFP) as the unit of measurement, which allows for consistent and comparable size assessments across different software projects.

Implementation Benefits

Implementing BS ISO/IEC 19761:2011 provides numerous benefits for organisations involved in software development:

• Improved Estimation Accuracy: By using a standardised method for measuring functional size, organisations can achieve more accurate project estimates, which aids in budgeting and resource allocation.
• Enhanced Project Management: The clarity provided by functional size measurements allows project managers to better track progress, manage scope, and assess productivity.
• Benchmarking: The COSMIC method facilitates benchmarking against industry standards, enabling organisations to evaluate their performance relative to peers.

Compliance Value

Adhering to BS ISO/IEC 19761:2011 not only demonstrates a commitment to quality and professionalism but also ensures compliance with international best practices in software measurement. Compliance with this standard can lead to:

• Increased Stakeholder Confidence: Clients and stakeholders are more likely to trust organisations that adhere to recognised standards, enhancing business relationships.
• Regulatory Compliance: For organisations operating in regulated environments, compliance with this standard can assist in meeting legal and regulatory requirements related to software development.
• Quality Assurance: By implementing a structured measurement approach, organisations can ensure that their software products meet quality expectations and functional requirements.

In conclusion, BS ISO/IEC 19761:2011 serves as a critical framework for organisations aiming to improve their software measurement practices. By adopting the COSMIC method, organisations can enhance their project management capabilities, ensure compliance with international standards, and ultimately deliver higher quality software products.