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When evaluation of terms such as "design complexity" and its "quality", it is often performed in an ad hoc manner. This paper attempts to remedy this situation by articulating two definitions of design complexity (structural complexity versus functional complexity), their associated value measures, and the relationships between them. The structural definition states that a design complexity is a function of its representation. Defining design complexity in the structural way provides quantitative techniques for evaluating vague terms. The functional definition states that a design complexity is a function of its probability of successfully achieving the required specifications (functional requirements and constraints). The proposed measurable metrics provide a proper basis for evaluating each step of the design process, and accordingly recommends the direction to follow for design modification and enhancement. It also provides a framework for comparing competing artifacts.
Braha et al. (Wed,) studied this question.