A. Early IT Estimating: Portfolio Through Design

This module is an overview of the estimating methods that improve early estimate certainty in Information Technology projects: High-Low Consensus, Statistical Methods, the COCOMO II model, and different Product Point (scope measurement) Estimating approaches. It also stresses the communication and documentation of estimate assumptions.

Learning Objectives

	Identify the most useful early project estimating methods, and the appropriate timing for each.
	Describe and use multiple early project estimating methods, identifying the strengths and prerequisites for each.
	Apply Early Application Point estimating methods to size early project scope, and refined Application Point methods for post-Requirements measures.
	Explain the use of parametric estimating methods such as COCOMO II and the type of information needed to use them.
	Explain statistical estimating methods, and the information needed to apply them effectively.
	Discuss why early estimating depends on automated support; identify the additional prerequisites to good estimates.

Audience
Those who are (or should be) involved in early project estimates, including Sponsors, Resource Managers, Project Management Office Staff, Project Managers, Customers, Team Leaders and key Team Members.

Note that this module is an extract and overview of the topics covered in more depth, with increased “hands-on” application, in our 2-day or 3-day Software Cost Estimating Learning experience.

Modular Project Management is a registered trademark of Goff Associates, Inc., the ProjectExperts.