Posted by Developing an Efficient and Repeatable Life Cycle Cost Estimation Process within an IPT Framework by Leveraging Parametric Tools and Constant Client Communication
Life Cycle Cost Track
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Abstract:
One of the major challenges that federal IT program offices encounter is to develop accurate and defendable life cycle cost estimates, given shrinking budgets and limited availability of key resources. Additionally, the program offices frequently have neither “embedded” cost estimation resources nor tools required to develop Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCEs). Working in a collaborative environment, PRICE Systems, Alon Inc, and Logapps have developed a repeatable process to deliver high-quality LCCEs that can stand up to GAO and OMB scrutiny. We leverage a “best of breed” parametric model (PRICE System’s TruePlanning), cost estimation best practices, such as requirements-based software sizing (function point analysis) and involvement of trained and experienced cost estimators, and early and effective communication with the program manager and program SMEs.
The use of parametric models allows for cost drivers, and not results, to be collectively adapted, which aids both the independence of the estimator and the sponsor’s understanding of the parametric methodology. We also provide direct access to the parametric model OEM to ensure effective use of the software. We involve program management support vendors in the process, to serve as the “eyes and ears” of the program, which also serves to reduce data collection cycle time. We achieve Program Manager buy-in through active participation in meetings prior to completion of the LCCE. Our team has delivered LCCEs to DHS ICE FPS, which received Department approval, within 30-60 days by following this repeatable process.
Author(s):
Kevin McKeel
Mr. McKeel has delivered cost estimating and project management services for US Coast Guard, US Army, IRS and Customs and Border Protection as Managing Partner of Logapps LLC.
Mr. McKeel has fifteen years of experience in the cost estimation world, and has served a variety of DoD, civilian agency, and commercial clients. He has focused much of his career on software estimation and parametric analysis, and has frequently delivered papers at industry conferences, such as ISPA, SCEA and PMI.
Mr. McKeel holds a Bachelor in Business Administration (Finance, ‘89) from James Madison University and a Masters in Business Administration (Decision Systems, ’92) from The George Washington University. Mr. McKeel is also a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA).He enjoys sports and literature in his spare time.
Zachary Jasnoff
PRICE Systems, LLC
Zachary Jasnoff (Zachary.Jasnoff@pricesystems.com 856.912.0974), is a Solutions Architect Director for PRICE Systems, LLC. Headquartered in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, PRICE Systems provides advanced modeling software and expert professional services to government agencies and corporations throughout the United States and around the globe.
Mr. Jasnoff has over 25 years experience in Life Cycle Cost estimating on a wide range of defense programs and is an acknowledged expert in Affordability Management. Mr. Jasnoff began his career at the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) where he was responsible for independent audits and investigations of defense acquisition programs.
Mr. Jasnoff then broadened his career in parametric lifecycle estimating while serving in various positions at Boeing, PRICE Systems (mid-1990’s) and Lockheed-Martin. At Lockheed-Martin he was responsible for managing the Affordability Analysis group, and was the “Cost as an Independent Variable” (CAIV) author for the Littoral Combat Ship Proposal. He has won several awards from the International Society of Parametric Analysts (ISPA) for various presentations on CAIV and advanced estimating methodologies.
Prior to joining PRICE Systems, Mr. Jasnoff served as Vice President/Director of Business Resiliency at JPMorganChase. In this position, Mr. Jasnoff managed a staff responsible for developing new models for measuring resiliency, value-at-risk and Total Cost of Ownership.
Mr. Jasnoff is also a firm believer in lifelong learning and, in August 2006, received his M.S.E in Technology Management from Penn Engineering and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. While at Wharton, Mr. Jasnoff was part of a team that developed intellectual property for the financial sector in Business Resiliency and Risk Management. He also holds an M.B.A from American University and B.A. from Villanova University.