- There are thousands of possible metrics for the applications manager to collect and use.
- Many find it difficult to appreciate - or to convince the business - that a metrics program is worth the cost.
- Once a metrics program is in place, reporting the right metrics to the right people can be a challenge.
Our Advice
Critical Insight
- Start with quality and customer satisfaction metrics.
- Predictability is also important. Keep on-time, on-budget metrics in your tool belt, but realize their limitations.
- More specific and traditional metrics can be considered after key metrics are on track. Only choose a few metrics that are tailored to the needs of your organization.
- Focus on tracking internal metrics over time rather than external benchmarking.
Impact and Result
- Collecting and using metrics will lead to better predictability, less time spent fixing bugs, better adherence to standards, and higher user satisfaction.
- A better understanding of metrics and their benefits can help communicate the applications department’s situation and needs to the business.
- Acting when metrics indicate problems will avoid disasters and keep the applications department running smoothly.