Web Engineering: A Quantitative Methodology for Quality Evaluation and Comparison of Web Applications

Abstract

This research is aimed at defining and discussing a quantitative methodology, the one integral, robust and flexible, for the quality evaluation and comparison of Web sites and applications (WebApps). The approach, from now on called Web-site Quality Evaluation Methodology (Web-site QEM) is intended to perform an engineering contribution proposing for such an end a systematic, disciplined and quantitative strategy customized to the evaluation, comparison, and analysis of the quality of somewhat complex WebApps. We analyze their phases and activities, we describe the produced deliverables, and we present models, methods, procedures, principles and tools to apply in these activities. We outline the approach and its solutions, using along the thesis two case studies for WebApps, and other carried out field studies. In addition, we present a conceptual framework for metric validation and we discuss the theoretical validation of some utilized metrics in the evaluation process. Finally, we describe thoroughly an evaluation process model which Web-site QEM adheres. In this report, just the main methodology’s steps are shown. Besides, some specific models, criteria and procedures to apply in these activities are discussed by quoting case studies already performed (e.g., in the academic domain as well as in museums and e-commerce domain, i.e., international e-bookstores ).