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ISESE
2006
IEEE

Using observational pilot studies to test and improve lab packages

13 years 9 months ago
Using observational pilot studies to test and improve lab packages
Controlled experiments are a key approach to evaluate and evolve our understanding of software engineering technologies. However, defining and running a controlled experiment is a difficult and error-prone task. This paper argues that one can significantly reduce the risks associated with defining a new controlled experiment by running a set of well-planned observational pilot studies aimed at improving the experimental material. It gives the steps for such approach and uses a case study to illustrate it. The case study shows the definition of an experiment to evaluate inspection techniques for information visualization tools through a set of four observational studies and one experimental trial. Based on the lessons learned we present some guidelines on how to test and improve experimental material in such way. Categories and Subject Descriptors D.2.0 [Software Engineering]: General General Terms Measurement, Experimentation. Keywords Empirical Studies, Lab Package, Visual Data Minin...
Manoel G. Mendonça, Daniela Cruzes, Josemei
Added 12 Jun 2010
Updated 12 Jun 2010
Type Conference
Year 2006
Where ISESE
Authors Manoel G. Mendonça, Daniela Cruzes, Josemeire Dias, Maria Cristina Ferreira de Oliveira
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