Quality Software Project Management

Chapter 10. Software Size and Reuse Estimating

Predicting the “size” of a software system becomes progressively easier as the project advances. The first time an attempt is made, at the front end of the life cycle, little is known except for high-level customer requirements. This is equivalent to requesting a custom-built home, beginning with only an idea of the layout—the square footage may be estimated by architect and client, but it may well change as requirements are clarified and blueprints evolve. Near the end of a software development project, there are fewer tasks remaining and stable specifications, allowing for far more accurate estimation. Of course, we can't wait until near the end to provide estimates—we are required to estimate cost, ...