January 4, 1992 A Software Complexity Model of Object-Oriented Systems David P. Tegarden Information and Decision Sciences School of Business and Public Administration California State University San Bernadino, California 92407-2397 tegarden@gallium.csusb.edu (714) 880-5792 Steven D. Sheetz Graduate School of Business University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado 80309-0419 SHEETZ_S@CUBLDR.COLORADO.EDU (303) 492-4405 David E. Monarchi Graduate School of Business University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado 80309-0419 MONARCHI_D@CUBLDR.COLORADO.EDU (303) 492-7584 ABSTRACT A model for the emerging area of software complexity measurement of OO systems is required for the integration of measures defined by various researchers and to provide a framework for continued investigation. We present a model, based in the literature of OO systems and software complexity for structured systems. The model defines the software complexity of OO systems at the variable, method, object, and system levels. At each level, measures are identified that account for the cohesion and coupling aspects of the system. Users of OO techniques perceptions of complexity provide support for the levels and measures. KEYWORDS: Object-Oriented Systems, Software Metrics, Software Measurement, Software Quality Send Comments to Steven D. Sheetz at the above address. Revised for: Decision Support Systems: The International Journal (1/93)