An assessment of key factors for implementing measurement processes in SMEs

A measurement framework is proposed to assess the significant factors which influence the successful implementation of software measurement processes at small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The framework consists of 7 factors i.e., external forces, measurement culture, organizational structure, measurement adaptation process, management commitment, acceptance in decision making and measures and metrics. A purposive sampling method is used to conduct an online survey among 217 software professionals to validate the proposed framework. The structural equation modeling and factor analysis is performed to analyze the survey data. We found that management commitment and external forces have a significant impact on adaptation of measurements at SMEs.

I. Introduction

There are multiple studies on software measurement processes to recognize significant factors that shape the successful implementation of measurement processes [13]. These studies have recognized the critical success factors and major challenges to implementing measurement processes [13]. Deckers and McQuaid analyzed 610 measurement processes and they reported that 80% of measurement processes could not sustain more than two years and 78% of these were failed to achieve measurement objectives [37].