Evaluation and improvement of software products and processes based on measurement

A methodology including the essential steps for any software measurement activity is described. Based on previous and original works, this methodology allows one to specify, verify and validate metrics. Related to a defined goal, metrics are specified using a formal notation and then verified. Validating predictive metrics is a crucial task for any goal aiming at improving software processes or products. Potential issues and precautions that must be taken during the validation phase are presented. In order to illustrate the defined approach, an industrial application of the methodology is presented.