Software metrics from the algorithmic perspective

In this paper, software metrics and processes of program development, verification and maintenance are analyzed in the context of the theory of algorithms. This study is aimed to support the development of high quality production-grade software. The process of program design as a transition from a problem to a program is studied. Analysis of the situation shows that there are different meanings of a problem solution. We formalize these meanings with the aim of better structuring and optimization of the program design process. On the base of algorithmic complexity and of the theory of programs in the sense of Halstead, we analyze qualities of programs represented by software metrics. A classification of software metrics is developed.