A project management approach to using simulation for cost estimation on large, complex software development projects

An engineering manager can use this article to develop an approach to estimating cost and scheduling for large, complex software development projects that considers the inherent difficulties of developing accurate estimates for such projects. None of the approaches or tools available today can estimate the true cost of software with any high degree of accuracy early in a project. This article provides an approach that uses a software development process simulation model that considers and conveys the level Of uncertainty that exists when developing an initial estimate. A NASA project will be analyzed using simulation and data from the Software Engineering Laboratory to show the benefits Of Such an approach.