Posted by Simplifying Software Sizing with Simple Function Points
From the Journal of Cost Analysis and Parametrics: Volume 11 | Issue 1 | April 2023
Downloadable File: JCAPv11i1-SimplifyingSizingSimpleFunctionPoints-Dekkers
Abstract: Professional software cost estimators recognize that one of the most elusive, yet fundamental components of parametric software cost estimation is the size of the software under development. While many methods have been proposed over the years to quantify software size, none has been as stable or independent of changing technologies as functional size measurement (FSM), first introduced at IBM in the late 1970’s. FSM and its unit of measure, function points, derives software size based on a standardized assessment of its functional requirements. Today, the most popular and globally accepted FSM approach is the International Function Point Users Group (IFPUG) Function Point Analysis (FPA) version 4.3.1. In October 2021, the IFPUG released a new and standardized approach called Simple Function Points (SFP) version 2.1, based on an IFPUG 4.3.1 compatible approach developed by Dr. Roberto Meli of Italy in 2010.
This paper introduces the SFP methodology, demonstrates its use, and highlights the challenges and opportunities for software cost estimators who need to estimate software size from high level software requirements. We will also explore the key differences between SFP and traditional IFPUG FP, including guidance for cost estimators using Function Point measures as the basis for their software cost estimates.
Authors:
Carol Dekkers is a management consultant and president of Quality Plus Technologies, specializing in workings with organizations who want to keep their promises to their clients through realistic, data-founded estimates. In 2022, she was named the ICEAA 2022 Educator of the Year for her work as the lead author for soon-to-be-released Software Cost Estimating Body of Knowledge (CEBoK-S).
She holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering and is an IFPUG Certified Function Point Specialist (Fellow), a PMP, Certified Scrum Master and a P.Eng. (Canada). Ms. Dekkers has authored several textbooks on functional size measurement (function Points) and project management and is a frequent presenter and instructor on these topics internationally. She currently consults under contract to several U.S. federal government agencies and to the private sector. In Feb 2023, Ms. Dekkers was named one of Consulting Magazine’s 2023 Global Leaders in Consulting for her leadership in pro bono for her contributions to the IFPUG, ASQ, PMI, and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Daniel (Dan) B. French has twenty years of experience in a variety of IT roles including analyst, developer, tester, project management, software metrics and software estimation. He has developed CMMi and ISO compliant process improvement and software estimation processes.
Dan holds a B.S. in Economics from Virginia Tech and holds certification as a Lifetime CFPS, PMP and CSM. He recently served as the Certification Director on the IPFUG Board of Directors and is currently the chair. Previously he served as the Chair of the Functional Software Sizing Committee (FSSC). He’s authored numerous white papers/presentations on software metrics, Agile, and estimation.