Tactical Project Estimation

Customers using SPR for tactical project estimation are seeking outside expert opinion on the expected cost, effort, duration and staffing of a proposed project. Using the historical data in the SPR knowledge base combined with our expert modeling too SPR KnowledgePLAN®, we provide accurate estimates in a detailed report.

Project Data

The greatest level of accuracy for estimates can be achieved when there is sufficiently detailed “basic information” provided as input. The most important factors are:

• Requirements size - quantified in Function Points using standard Function Point Analysis methodology or approximated using one of several reliable techniques.
• Effort, complexity, and financial data – to the extent that this is available or can be reliably or consistently quantified.
• Work Breakdown Structure – the set of tasks necessary for completing the work, either according to standard organizational policy or third-party expectations.

Environment/Project Attributes

• Predicting cost, effort, duration and staffing of a proposed project accurately requires taking into consideration aspects of the development environment (capability, experience, etc.) and other important attributes.
• The SPR tactical estimation process uses structured interviews together with administered questionnaires to collect this vital information.
• Based upon input received, a risk profile that takes into consideration strengths and weaknesses is established. The profile is applied to the sizing information and modeled according to historical data in the SPR knowledge base.

Reporting

• Results of the Tactical Estimate are presented in a variety of reports, at increasing levels of detail. It is possible to “drill down” into a high-level estimate to examine expected values (e.g., effort) for individual tasks in the lifecycle.
• Estimation scenarios (agreed upon beforehand with client managers) take into consideration constraints (such as staffing or team availability) and other calibration parameters. The result is a detailed presentation of predicted results for best-case, average case, and worst-case scenarios.
• SPR produces reports and (optionally) management presentations to show predicted results and the rationale and logic behind the numbers.

Sample Analyses

Project Attributes - Analysis Summary Report

Project Scenarios – Work Effort Variance