[computer-go] Metrics for good shape

[Carter Cheng]

I still have difficulties understanding certain
aspects of the game of go. One of the things I fail to
grasp is the concept of shape. I noticed most go
computer programs probably dont seem understand it
that well either- but it appears to be a long term
desirable feature of a position and something to aim
for. 

Are there good ways already to define something
quality of the position like this? 

Regards,

Carter.