Re: KSLOC estimates Ada vs C++

[Richard D Riehle <laoXhai@ix.netcom.com>]

In article <374DCB87.6EE9BE49@lmco.com>,
	Raymond Calande <ray.calande@lmco.com> wrote:

>Has anyone ever seen a reference in which a comparison is done that
>shows the relative size in KSLOC for Ada versus C++ for the equivalent
>program?
>TIA
>

One can easily understand why such a question would be asked.  We
are often looking for simple comparisons that can help us make
decisions about complicated matters.  

Unfortunately, such a comparison is likely to be at best inconclusive,
probably misleading, and at the very worst ridiculous.  In some cases, 
a C++ program might be a little larger.  In others, Ada might have more
KSLOC. What would be infer from such a comparison?

1) Ada/C++ is easier to write?

2) Ada/C++ is easier to maintain through the full lifecycle?

3) Ada/C++ is easier to read?

4) Ada/C++ improves productivity?

5) None of the above

The correct answer is, None of the above.  

There are so many hidden factors. Do we include the number of KSLOC 
of the libraries used in each program?   Does the size of the problem
contribute to the size of the program, and does an Ada program solution
become smaller as the problem gets larger?   Is a short C++ program 
shorter than a short Ada program?  

It would be convenient if we could reduce our decision-making to this kind
of information.  As is so often affirmed in contemparary sitcoms, "Size
doesn't matter."

Richard Riehle
richard@adaworks.com
http://www.adaworks.com