Which type of review is most effective for gathering metrics?

The most effective type of review for gathering metrics is the inspection. Inspections are structured and formalized review processes where the primary goal is to identify defects as well as gather quantitative data about the quality of the work being reviewed. During inspections, the participants engage in detailed analysis of the artifacts, such as requirements or design documents, which allows for precise measurement of the quality attributes being evaluated.

The nature of an inspection is systematic, allowing for the collection of various metrics such as defect rates, review coverage, and other quantitative measures. This focus on metrics is what sets inspections apart from other review types, making them especially valuable in environments that prioritize quality metrics for continuous improvement.

In contrast, walkthroughs tend to be more informal and are often used for knowledge sharing rather than a rigorous evaluation of metrics. Technical reviews can also evaluate work product quality, but they typically lack the meticulous gathering of quantitative data characteristic of inspections. Audits are generally more concerned with compliance and adherence to standards, focusing less on gathering metrics related to defects and quality. Thus, inspections provide the structure and focus necessary for effective metrics collection.