International Journal of Computer Science Issues

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Software cost estimation is the process of predicting the effort required to develop a software system. Many estimation models have been proposed over the last 30 years. This Chapter provides a general overview of software cost estimation methods including the recent advances in the field. As a number of these models rely on a software size estimate as input, we first provide an overview of common size metrics. We then highlight the cost estimation models that have been proposed and used successfully. Models may be classified into 2 major categories: algorithmic and non-algorithmic. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. A key factor in selecting a cost estimation model is the accuracy of its estimates. Unfortunately, despite the large body of experience with estimation models, the accuracy of these models is not satisfactory. The Chapter includes comment on the performance of the estimation models and description of several newer approaches to cost estimation. Keywords: project estimation, effort estimation, cost models. It can be used to determine what resources to commit to the project and how well these resources will be used. It can be used to assess the impact of changes and support re planning.ƒn Projects can be easier to manage and control when resources are better matched to real needs. Customers expect actual development costs to be in line with estimated costs. Software cost estimation involves the determination of one or more of the following