Measurements are a key element for controlling software engineering processes. By controlling, it is meant that one can assess the status of the process, observe the trends to predict what is likely to happen, and take corrective action for modifying our practices. Measurements also play their part in increasing our understanding of the process by making visible relationships among process activities based and entities involved. Lastly, measurements improve our processes by modifying the activities based on different measures.

On the basis of this discussion, software measurement is needed for the following activities,

Understanding

Metrics help in making the aspects of a process more visible, thereby giving a better understanding of the relationships among the activities and entities they affect.

Control

Using baselines, goals, and an understanding of the relationships, we can predict what is likely to happen and correspondingly, make appropriate changes in the process to help meet the goals.

Improvement

By taking corrective actions and making appropriate changes, we can improve a product. Similarly, based on the analysis of a project, a process can also be improved.