Definitions, sample requirements, equations, and guidance for data collection and analysis necessary to make consistent and actionable measurements of a software system’s reliability, availability, supportability, and recoverability are provided in this document. The dependability of software systems is collectively defined by these characteristics.

This standard identifies, classifies, and defines measures of the software aspects of in-service dependability. As such, it provides a framework for stakeholders to understand the software aspects of dependability and to make dependability measurements throughout the system life cycle. It provides definitions, requirements, and guidance for the data collection and analysis necessary to make consistent and actionable measurements of a software system’s reliability, availability, supportability, and recoverability. This standard is applicable to any software system or service. It is particularly useful for critical systems where the reliability of their safety...

The purpose of this standard is to establish guidance for measuring the software aspects of dependability as applicable to a system's operational context. It is intended for in-service measurement. It may be used during requirements, architecture, and design development; software construction and integration; and verification and validation of the software products of these activities. The overall objective is to enable stakeholders to measure dependability in software intensive systems throughout software operations and maintenance.