An Exploratory Study of Software Cost Estimating at the Electronic Systems Division.
Thomas J Devenny · Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) · 1976
The estimate of software development cost is the key piece of information in many software management decisions. No technique exists which can consistently produce the reliable and accurate cost estimates which managers need. This thesis research effort explored the software cost estimating process at the Electronic Systems Division of the Air Force Systems Command. The purpose of the research was to provide managers, researchers, and cost estimators with a better insight into the cost estimating process. Data were gathered from 16 major software acqusitions at ESD using both a structured interview and contractor furnished Cost performance Reports. The research findings identified some major problems which are currently inhibiting the development of accurate and reliable software cost estimates. To reduce these problems, recommendations are made to adopt a common cost estimating technique and to modify the use of contractor furnished software cost information. While the research was limited to ESD, the research findings and the recommendations may be applicable to other DoD software acquisition agencies. (Author)