Hi all,
Background: We have been using LabVIEW for test automation for over a decade and we are a team of six people. There are two Certified LabVIEW Architects and three Certified LabVIEW Developers and a Certified Associate Developer. We have been using customized waterfall model for the project execution. Most of the time, individuals handle projects independently. Sometimes, we do have projects which demand few individuals working together to achieve the project goals/objectives.
Challenge/Issue: One of the key challenges we have at the moment is project size estimation. We do not have any standard method for project estimation and the estimation number goes purely on personal skill set and experience. Different people comes up with different estimation number (in mandays) for the same requirement. This technique does not work well always and fails many times.
Many times we found there is a huge difference between the initial estimate and actual time consumed.
1. Is there a standard estimation technique which best suits for LabVIEW based projects?
2. How do we factor technical project risks associated with the project in estimation? At present we simply add huge buffer for unknowns based on past relevant experience.
3. How to factor the level of expertise of the individual in project estimation? In general, project is estimated by an experienced individual and executed by a less experienced person.
Any comments suggestions are most welcome.
Highly appreciate your efforts.
Thank you.