Measurement and Metrics

Numbers, models, and measurements are often used to describe. Just as often, they are used to persuade. Sometimes, they are used to intimidate. In order to avoid being fooled or bullied, testers must be able to examine information, claims, and evidence critically. They must apply critical thinking to their own observations, interpretations, and reports in order to avoid fooling themselves—or worse, their clients. Michael Bolton and Laurent Bossavit help you look thoughtfully and skillfully at reports, research, and common claims about testing and software development. Learn methods for analyzing those claims and a framework for evaluating them. Apply this approach to real-world cases and exercises, and refine your approach to collecting, assessing, and presenting data. Throughout, remain engaged as you look at the original data, assess the relationship between numbers and their representations, evaluate the methods of measurement and, in a nutshell, refine your current skills and build new ones. Caution: This workshop may interfere with your enjoyment of your daily newspaper.