Posted by Function Point Analysis: One Size Fits All
Software Track
SW03_Presentation_FunctionPointAnalysis_French
Abstract:
There are many challenges when faced with creating estimates for software development projects. However, without a doubt the single largest driver for cost, effort and duration is project size.
The typical approach to sizing a software project, if it is tried at all, is to “estimate” software lines of code (SLOC). While this may be the most expeditious method, history has shown that this approach usually produces highly inaccurate estimates.
IBM developed function points as an alternative method to bring about more consistent and accurate project sizing for use in software project estimation. This methodology, while not a perfect solution, has enjoyed great success in more than 30 years of use world-wide.
This presentation will provide a brief overview of the International Function Point Users Group (IFPUG) Function Point sizing methodology, its key concepts, as well as strengths, limitations and misconceptions.
Function point based metrics, FP based contracting and other key uses for FPA will be covered. The presentation will also detail why FPA is preferable to SLOC or other sizing methods when creating software development project estimates.
Author:
Dan French
Cobec Consulting
Mr. French has over a dozen years of experience in a variety of Information Technology roles including application analyst, developer, tester, software metrics and software project estimation. Additionally, he has developed CMMi and ISO compliant process improvement and software estimation processes.
He has been International Function Point User Group (IFPUG) member and Certified Function Point Specialist (CFPS) since 2000. He currently serves on the IFPUG New Environments Committee and is a former member of the IFPUG conference committee. He is also a member of SCEA, the Project Management Institute, the General Accounting Office (GAO) Cost Expert Group and is a Six Sigma Yellow Belt.
Mr. French received a B.S. in Economics from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and is a graduate of the Chubb Institute’s Top Gun training program.