Empirical software engineering

For the journal, see Empirical Software Engineering.

Empirical software engineering (ESE)^[1] is a subfield of software engineering (SE) research that uses empirical research methods to study and evaluate an SE phenomenon of interest. The phenomenon may refer to software development tools/technology, practices, processes, policies, or other human and organizational aspects.

ESE has roots in experimental software engineering, but as the field has matured the need and acceptance for both quantitative and qualitative research has grown.^[2] Today, common research methods used in ESE for primary and secondary research are the following:^[3]

• Primary research (experimentation, case study research, survey research, simulations in particular software Process simulation)
• Secondary research methods (Systematic reviews, Systematic mapping studies, rapid reviews, tertiary review)

Teaching empirical software engineering

Some comprehensive books^[1][4] for students, professionals and researchers interested in ESE are available.

Research community

Journals, conferences, and communities devoted specifically to ESE:

• Empirical Software Engineering: An International Journal
• International Symposium on Empirical Software Engineering and Measurement
• International Software Engineering Research Network (ISERN)