Final answer:
The correct answer is option b. function-point metrics, which are used for normalizing productivity and quality by considering the size of the software based on its functionality, rather than just lines of code.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is option b. function-point metrics. Metrics that are derived by normalizing quality and/or productivity measures by considering the size of the software that has been produced are known as function-point metrics. These metrics evaluate software size based on functionality, which is considered a more effective way to assess the productivity and quality of software development projects than simply using lines of code. Function-point metrics take into account the number and complexity of user inputs, user outputs, user inquiries, files, and external interfaces.
While measuring productivity can refer to the amount produced per hour of work, there are indeed other methods. Productivity can also be measured by the efficiency of processes, the quality of the products produced, and the degree of innovation that leads to new products and improved processes.
In terms of evaluating the quality of a design, engineers focus on various attributes of the product, and assess whether prototypes are tested adequately. This thorough testing is essential to guarantee that the design meets the intended quality standards.
Function-point metrics are derived by normalizing quality and/or productivity measures by considering the size of the software that has been produced. They focus on the functionality provided by the software and use the concept of function points, which are a unit of measurement to represent the functionality provided to the users.
For example, one commonly used function-point metric is the number of function points per unit of code. This metric helps measure the productivity of software development teams by considering the size of the software produced relative to the functionality provided.