Complexity, size and internal quality in the evolution of mobile applications Open source software and software evolution Software quality evaluation using Spearman correlation analysis techniqueMobile applications, though being relatively small and easy to manage in their initial releases, are becoming complex software systems as they evolve rapidly and grow constantly to meet user requirements. However, satisfying these requirements may lead to poor design choices known as 'antipatterns' that can degrade software quality and performance. Therefore, perception and monitoring of the characteristics of mobile applications are important activities to facilitate maintenance and development, so that developers are directed to restructure their practices and upgrade their qualifications.
Figure A. Hypotheses tested and validation resultsPurpose: This study aims to better understand the development of complexity, size and internal quality in the evolution of mobile applications and, in particular, to investigate the validity of three of Lehman's laws (increasing complexity, continuous growth, decreasing quality) in mobile applications.
Theory and Methods:In this context, an exploratory study was carried out by analyzing the evolution of application quality, according to hypotheses established and using object-oriented design metrics in 61 versions of three Android-based mobile applications.
Results:As a result of the conducted analyses, Lehman's 'continuous growth' law was validated for all apps, while the 'increased complexity' and 'declining quality' laws have not been validated. In addition, the results of the experimental study have been verified with Spearman correlation analysis and it was observed that there is a significant relation between the design metrics and the quality attributes.
Conclusion:In this study, the complexity, size and internal quality in the evolution of mobile applications was explored. The study is expected to guide similar studies on the evolution and maintenance of mobile software.