TL;DR

Let’s give the definition of measurement. The post is aligned with the Black Box Software Testing Foundations course (BBST) designed by Rebecca Fiedler, Cem Kaner, and James Bach.

Measurement is

the empirical,

objective assignment of numbers to attributes

of objects or events (according to a rule derived from a model or theory)

with the intent of describing them.

Let’s discuss every part of this definition.

• Empirical (adjective) – verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.

All measurement is verifiable by observation, which implies we must use some kind of instrument to do it.

• Objective (adjective) – not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.

We must note measurement as we see it on our instrument.

• Objects or events – we measure our height (object) or time of Sunrise (event).

We use the noted numbers to describe objects or events. Describe means to give an account in words of (someone or something), including all the relevant characteristics, qualities, or events.

Now you have a definition of measurement. Let’s measure something!