Software Estimation : What is An Estimate ?

Software EstimationWhat is an “Estimate” ?

Wildan Maulanawildan.m@openthinklabs.com

http://workshop.openthinklabs.com

#1

It is very difficult to make a vigorous, plausible, and job-risking defense of an estimate that is derived by no quantitative method, supported by little data, and certified chiefly by the hunches of the managers.—Fred Brooks

What Is an "Estimate"?

A tentative evaluation or rough calculation.

A preliminary calculation of the cost of a project

A judgment based upon one's impressions; opinion

…....asking for a commitment or for a plan to meet a target

Estimates, Targets, and Commitments

A target is a statement of a desirable business objective

"We need to have Version 2.1 ready to demonstrate at a trade show in May."

"These functions need to be completed by July 1 so that we'll be in compliance with government regulations."

A commitment is a promise to deliver defined functionality at a specific level of quality by a certain date

Distinguish between estimates, targets, and commitments.

Relationship Between Estimates and Plans

Estimation should be treated as an unbiased, analytical process

Planning should be treated as a biased, goal-seeking process

Diajarna Ngareu-yeuh .. :)

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