Information System Development

Effort Allocation

Effort Allocation

Project Effort Estimation

Effort estimation involves trade-offs between functionality, time, and cost. The process assigns projected values for time and effort, with the most accurate estimates coming from experience.

Estimation methods:

• Use-case point method:
  • Based on technical complexity factors (13) and environmental factors (8). An example can be seen in Karner Use Case Point Estimation
• Function point approach:
  • Converts function points into person-months, which then determine project duration.

Methods, Techniques, and Instruments in Project Identification

Methods	Techniques	Instruments
Observation	Direct location visit	Checklist
Interview	Face-to-face, telephone, email, etc.	List of questions
Questionnaires	Personal administration, email, etc.	Questionnaire
Document search	Direct location visit	List of documents
Sampling	Random, purposive, etc.	Randomization

Project Management Tools

Project management tools aid in creating workplans by:

• Identifying all tasks, their sequence, and estimating the time to complete each task.

Common tools:

• Work breakdown structures (WBS):

  • A hierarchy of tasks that helps to:
    • Identify the duration of each task
    • Track the current status of each task
    • Show task dependencies (which tasks must be completed before others can begin)

• Gantt charts:

  • A horizontal bar chart that visually represents the WBS.

• Network diagrams:

  • Examples include PERT (Program Evaluation Review Technique) and CPM (Critical Path Method).