Method for software cost estimating using scope champions

Abstract

There are many methods of software cost estimating (COCOMO, function points analysis, three-point estimate, use case points, class points, XP user stories, SLOC prediction and others), with their advantages and drawbacks. One common problem with all methods is the necessity to estimate the whole requirements specification, item by item. At the end, either this process is expensive or the numbers are inaccurate. This paper presents a method of software cost estimating using a limited number of functional requirements, called Scope Champions. Estimators produce more detailed and grounded numbers that are used in a final estimation formula. The method reduces the costs of estimating and increases accuracy. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.