A Heuristic Tool for Measuring Software Quality Using Program Language Standards

Abstract

Background: Quality is a critical aspect of any software system. Indeed, it is a key factor for the competitiveness, longevity, and effectiveness of software products. Code review facilitates the discovery of programming errors and defects, and using programming language standards is such a technique. Aim: In this study, we developed a code review technique for achieving maximum software quality by using programming language standards. Method: A Java Code Quality Reviewer tool (JCQR) was proposed as a practical technique. It is an automated Java code reviewer that uses SUN and other customized Java standards. Results: The JCQR tool produces new quality-measurement information that indicates applied, satisfied, and violated rules in a piece of code. It also suggests whether code quality should be improved. Accordingly, it can aid junior developers and students in establishing a successful programming attitude. Limitation: JCQR uses customized SUN-based Java programming language standards. Therefore, it fails to cover certain features of Java.