Software metrics tool kit: support for selection, collection and analysis

An approach is described to metrics tool evaluation that allows a project manager to select a customized set of metrics tools for inclusion in a metrics tool kit. The tool evaluation results are stored in a database organized according to a faceted classification. By providing descriptors of each facet, the manager can retrieve only that tool information relevant to the project at hand. Tools can then be compared and contrasted by assigning weights to a set of selection criteria. Finally, selected tools are combined in a tool kit that becomes part of the development environment.