Using software metrics tools for maintenance decisions: a classroom exercise

We explore the use of software metrics tools to guide software maintenance decisions. A senior undergraduate class was given a copy of QUIPU, an implementation of the X.500 directory standard, and asked to determine which component of the system would be the best to rewrite in order to improve the overall quality of the entire software system. We describe the course structure and the information and tools provided to the students. The primary tool used by the students was Rigi, a program understanding tool. We present the methodology and results of one of the successful groups of students. Based on the experiences of the students, we conclude with suggestions for tool designers.