Formal definition of metrics upon the CORBA component model

Abstract. Objective: In this paper we present a formalization of the definition of metrics to assess quality attributes of CORBA components and assemblies. The focus is on the formalization technique, rather than on the evaluation of the metrics themselves. Method: We represent a component assembly as an instantiation of the CORBA Component Model metamodel. The resulting meta-object diagram can then be traversed using Object Constraint Language clauses. With these clauses we construct a formal and executable definition of the metrics. Results: We demonstrate the expressiveness of our technique by formally defining metrics proposed informally by several authors on different aspects of components and assemblies ’ quality attributes. Conclusion: Providing a formal and executable definition of metrics for CORBA components and assemblies is an enabling precondition to allow for independent scrutiny of such metrics, which is, in turn, essential to increase practitioners ’ confidence on predictable quality attributes.