Part-Time Programs in Engineering and Applied Science, Johns Hopkins University  

Software Size and Cost Estimating
605.701
Course Description
This course provides a detailed examination of software size and cost estimation techniques. Beginning with the components of a Request for Proposal which dictate cost drivers (WBS, SOW, Specification, and CDRL), the course describes techniques for software system size estimation (lines of code, function points, and feature points) and cost estimation. Cost estimation using various models (regression, empirical, and mathematical) and automated tools (COCOMO, REVIC, Checkpoint, SLIM, PRICE-S) is described. Conversion of estimated labor hours to dollars and the effects of fringe, overhead, skill mix profiles, and staffing profiles is addressed. Several special costing considerations are covered including software reuse, COTS installation/integration, and software maintenance. Finally, the course addresses the effects of object-oriented technology on software size and cost estimations.

Syllabus

  1. Introduction and Overview
  2. RFP and the Proposal Process
  3. Software Size Estimation (LOCs)
  4. Software Size Estimation (Function & Feature Points)
  5. Effort Estimation (Model Overview)
  6. COTS Models
  7. Mid-term Exam
  8. Model Demonstration (SLIM, SEER, etc.)
  9. Converting Hours to Dollars
  10. Costing COTS (Selection and Evaluation)
  11. Costing COTS (Integration and Test)
  12. Estimating Software Maintenance
  13. Estimating Software Maintenance
  14. Final Exam

Instructor
Allan Bowers is the Systems Engineering Department Manager with the Lockheed Martin Management & Data Systems division. Mr. Bowers has over 30 years experience in software engineering, systems engineering, and program management, including nearly 15 years as a supervisor and manager. Mr. Bowers has a B.S. in electrical engineering degree from the Johns Hopkins University and has completed considerable course work in computer science at the University of Colorado. Mr. Bowers has supported more than 20 software intensive proposals over the past five years and was frequently responsible for software estimations. Mr. Bowers joined Lockheed Martin by way of the merger process having previously worked for Ford Aerospace and Loral corporation.

Computer Lab Requirements
No specific computer requirements are necessary for this course.

Textbook
Course Notes

Return to Computer Science Courses | Computer Science  | Part-Time Engineering

Spring 1999-2000