Estimating the size, hours, cost, and schedule for software is often difficult – some have suggested dart boards and crystal balls as possible estimation tools. This presentation will give an overview of some of the more successful software estimation techniques, including the challenges of each. We will discuss important information for the Program Manager to understand about the estimates received from the software team.

JoAn Ferguson is a Technology Director for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. She has participated on and managed teams of software engineers developing real-time, embedded systems for signal processing, navigation, and command and control applications. Prior to GDAIS, JoAn was a process improvement consultant at the Systems and Software Consortium, Inc., where she was responsible for member-company software process assessment, improvement, consulting, and training services. At the Consortium, she worked with many large and small companies on improving their software estimation capabilities. JoAn received a BS in mathematics and computer science from the Heidelberg College and a Master of Engineering Management from George Washington University.

View Larger Map