Cost Estimation of Software Development and the Implications for the Program Manager
Abstract
Cost estimation of computer software development is a critical problem for the Department of Defense. The acquisition of major weapons or hardware has been impacted by cost overruns and schedule slippage in software development. Program Managers are responsible for estimating a program's cost using the information provided by the contractor and the cost analysis divisions within the System Commands. This study first analyzes why variance exists between the different estimates for the same software project that are provided to the Program Manager as input to the budget estimate. The study then examines four methods that are used to understand and reduce the variance between the estimates to give the Program Manager more control over the software development cost estimation process. A set of five specific decision rules is developed for the Program Manager to implement in the cost estimation process. The intent of the study is to improve the accuracy of the cost estimate by reducing the variance between the independently generated estimates submitted to the Program Manager.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA255167
Entities
People
- Glenn C. Doyle
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School