Data Driven Decisions

Chapter 23GQM – Goal Question Metric Analysis

The goal question metric (GQM) approach is a systems engineering tool that is used to create and rank goals, questions, and metrics based on a standardized methodology that is relative to the task at hand. GQM analysis is used in software development, but it is also useful for hiring personnel. This explains why it is popular in the human capital industry when trying to create a set of criteria that will help weigh the strengths and weaknesses of candidates. I will repeat the usage of some graphics here from our discussion on decision matrices.

Much of the work done during GQM becomes a springboard for decision‐making around the costly development of different solutions that might rank highly on a GQM scheme. The GQM process is simple.

1. Start by listing the goals of your organization or your project.
2. Develop questions that serve as an assessment of whether you are attaining those goals.
3. Decide the metrics that will help you answer these questions.
4. Figure out how you are going to consistently collect the data you need to feed into your metrics.

Ideally, the data collection method is something that you will be able to test later on should you choose to employ these tools (Figure 23.1). The matrix in Figure 23.2 shows an example of the GQM approach, with the overarching goal of developing an entertaining child's toy.

Figure 23.1 ...