Practical Software Estimation: Function Point Methods for Insourced and Outsourced Projects,Used

A clearly written book that is a useful primer for a very complicated set of topics.'Capers Jones, Chief Scientist Emeritus, Software Productivity Research LLCPractical Software Estimation brings together today's most valuable tips, techniques, and best practices for accurately estimating software project efforts, costs, and schedules. Written by a leading expert in the field, it addresses the full spectrum of realworld challenges faced by those who must develop reliable estimates.M. A. Parthasarathy draws on the immense experience of Infosys, one of the world's largest and most respected providers of ITenabled business solutions, to bring you the only book with detailed guidance on estimating insourced and outsourced software projects, as well as projects that blend both approaches. He demonstrates how to successfully utilize Function Point (FP) methods, the industry's leading estimation model. Then, using real case studies, he systematically identifies pitfalls that can lead to inaccurate estimatesand offers proven solutions.Coverage includes How to estimate all types of software projects, including 'fresh' development, reengineering, and maintenance How to incorporate the impact of core project elements on estimates: scope, environment, experience, and tools FP analysis from start to finish: data and transaction functions, general system characteristics, and more FP methods for any platform or business function Innovative reestimation methods to track progress How to quote RFPs and prepare contracts: fixed price, time/material, and project execution lifecycle models Alternatives to FP: Delphi, COCOMO II, and COSMICFFP How to choose the right estimation toolsPractical Software Estimation is the definitive reference for anyone who must estimate software projects accurately: project and IT managers, individual developers, system designers, architects, executives, consultants, and outsourcers alike.List of FiguresList of TablesForewordPrefaceAcknowledgmentsChapter 1: IntroductionChapter 2: Role of Estimation in Software ProjectsChapter 3: A Study of Function Point AnalysisChapter 4: Data FunctionsChapter 5: Transactional FunctionsChapter 6: General System CharacteristicsChapter 7: Size, Effort, and Scheduling of ProjectsChapter 8: Estimation FlavorsChapter 9: A Sense of Where You AreChapter 10: Tips, Tricks, and TrapsChapter 11: Insourcing versus OutsourcingChapter 12: Key Factors in Software ContractsChapter 13: Project Estimation and CostingChapter 14: Other Estimation MethodsChapter 15: Estimation ToolsChapter 16: Estimation Case StudyAppendix A: Reference Tables: Transaction Function CountsAppendix B: Reference Tables: Data Function PointsBibliographyIndex