Applying the COSMIC functional size measurement method to problem frames

The approach to requirements modelling based on problem frames is gaining increasing attention and popularity, especially when the decomposition of complex problems into simpler recurring problems (the "frames") is concerned. However, the usage of problem frames in industrial software development processes requires that management practices like cost estimation are supported. The COSMIC method for measuring the functional size of software is gaining consensus as a means for sizing the software at the stage of requirements specification. Data are being collected to support the construction of effort estimation models that take the COSMIC size as input. This paper explores the possibility of applying the COSMIC measurement method to user requirements represented using problem frames. To this end, problems are modelled using problem frames, both in their native notation and using UML; the COSMIC concepts are mapped onto the elements of problem frames; a procedure is defined to apply COSMIC compliant measurement rules to requirements models built according to the Problem Frames method. © 2009 IEEE.