> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sonarsource.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sonarsource.com/sonarqube-server/instance-administration/analysis-functions/metrics-parameters.md).

# Code metrics

Modifying parameters related to the maintainability metrics in SonarQube Server 2026.5 at the global level.

You can modify some parameters related to the maintainability metrics at the global level in the SonarQube Server UI, provided you have the Administer system permission. Alternatively, you can set the corresponding sonar property on the CI/CD host (see [Analysis parameters](/sonarqube-server/analyzing-source-code/analysis-parameters.md)).

## Changing the software development cost calculation <a href="#dev-cost-calculation" id="dev-cost-calculation"></a>

The development cost of one line of code is used in the Technical debt ratio calculation. To change the default value:

1. Go to **Administration** > **Configuration** > **General settings** > **Technical debt**.
2. In **Development cost**, change the values (in minutes).

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/mX1WoFEHhJp6VdSbyTDi/blobs/J3pimgKpRWiseHcXQzpP/admin-technical-debt.png" alt="Technical debt settings"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The corresponding sonar property is `sonar.technicalDebt.developmentCost`.

## Changing the maintainability rating grid <a href="#maintainability-rating" id="maintainability-rating"></a>

To change the default Maintainability rating grid:

1. In the top navigation bar of SonarQube Server, select **Administration** > **Configuration** > **General settings** > **Technical debt**.
2. In **Maintainability rating grid**, change the rating definition.

The corresponding sonar property is `sonar.technicalDebt.ratingGrid`.

## Related pages

* [Understanding measures and metrics](/sonarqube-server/user-guide/code-metrics/metrics-definition.md)


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