Simple and computable. It should be relatively easy to learn how to derive the metric, and its computation should not demand inordinate effort or time
Empirically and intuitively persuasive. The metric should satisfy the engineer’s intuitive notions about the product attribute under consideration
Consistent and objective. The metric should always yield results that are unambiguous.
Consistent in its use of units and dimensions. The mathematical computation of the metric should use measures that do not lead to bizarre combinations of unit.
Programming language independent. Metrics should be based on the analysis model, the design model, or the structure of the program itself.
Effective mechanism for quality feedback. That is, the metric should provide a software engineer with information that can lead to a higher quality end product