“A metric is a system of measurement that includes the item being measured, the unit of measurement, and the value of the unit.”
“Metrics deals with measurements that are used to determine the progress toward meeting certain goals. It quantifiably answers the question whether or not the goal has been met. Every person with goals has used a measuring system to determine if his/her goal was met and what steps needed to take to continue to reach that goal. Metrics are used by organizations to measure which business and organizational goals are appropriate for the organization, given its particular mission.”
Geisler, E. (2000). The metrics of science and technology: Evaluation of research, development and innovation. Westport, CT: Quorum Books.
Harrison, L.G. (1997). Metrics for all of us! Altika: E-business catalyst. Retrieved on October 17, 2005, from http://www.altika.com/leadership/metrics.htm.