The objective of this plan is to effectively track the quality of code using a set of essential metrics. These metrics include Code Coverage, Code Complexity, Technical Debt, Defect Density, and Code Churn. Each metric provides valuable insights into specific aspects of code quality, helping teams maintain high standards.
For example, Code Coverage measures the percentage of code tested by automated tests, a critical factor in ensuring software reliability. On the other hand, Code Complexity assesses the intricacy of code, guiding developers towards simpler, more maintainable solutions.
Metrics like Technical Debt and Defect Density are crucial as well. Technical Debt highlights areas where quick, easy solutions might lead to future rework. Meanwhile, Defect Density focuses on reducing errors in the codebase. All these metrics together help in identifying areas for improvement and fostering a culture of continuous enhancement in software development.
Top 5 metrics for Tracking Quality of Code
1. Code Coverage
Measures the percentage of your code that is covered by automated tests
What good looks like for this metric: 70%-90%
How to improve this metric:- Increase unit tests
- Use code coverage tools
- Refactor complex code
- Implement test-driven development
- Conduct code reviews frequently
2. Code Complexity
Assesses the complexity of the code using metrics like Cyclomatic Complexity
What good looks like for this metric: 1-10 (Lower is better)
How to improve this metric:- Simplify conditional statements
- Refactor to smaller functions
- Reduce nested loops
- Use design patterns appropriately
- Perform regular code reviews
3. Technical Debt
Measures the cost of additional work caused by choosing easy solutions now instead of better approaches
What good looks like for this metric: Less than 5%
How to improve this metric:- Refactor code regularly
- Avoid quick fixes
- Ensure high-quality code reviews
- Update and follow coding standards
- Use static code analysis tools
4. Defect Density
Calculates the number of defects per 1000 lines of code
What good looks like for this metric: Less than 1 defect/KLOC
How to improve this metric:- Implement thorough testing
- Increase peer code reviews
- Enhance developer training
- Use static analysis tools
- Adopt continuous integration
5. Code Churn
Measures the amount of code that is added, modified, or deleted over time
What good looks like for this metric: 10-20%
How to improve this metric:- Stabilise project requirements
- Improve initial code quality
- Adopt pair programming
- Reduce unnecessary refactoring
- Enhance documentation
How to track Tracking Quality of Code metrics
It's one thing to have a plan, it's another to stick to it. We hope that the examples above will help you get started with your own strategy, but we also know that it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day effort.
That's why we built Tability: to help you track your progress, keep your team aligned, and make sure you're always moving in the right direction.
Give it a try and see how it can help you bring accountability to your metrics.
