DCG Newsletter June 2008: IT Estimation

IT Estimation Growing Up

Software estimation is both art and science. While many estimation tools try to move the art of estimation more over to science, human performance factors are always the great unknown. Many good cost software cost estimation models, strategies, tools and techniques exist and are useful. DCG does not sell tools or products in this space so we can deliver the appropriate IT value based solution to our clients.

That does not mean we do not evaluate and ask our clients to consider tools as an important part of their strategy and approach. One of our industry partners, Galorath, has made significant inroads in commercial and government markets with its suite of tools including the SEER-SEM software estimation module, part of the SEER for Software suite. A solid tool that should be on everyone's short list. However, estimation for non-software information technology intensive projects is a domain that needs leadership, strategies and tactics to help improve IT professional performance.

Last month, Galorath released SEER for IT, which DCG believes is a strong and early entry into this marketspace. It is worth evaluating as part of your estimation best practices approach. Briefly, SEER for IT was designed for IT professionals, enabling organizations to develop an early and accurate assessment of project costs, schedules, and risks as well as ongoing support, helping to maximize productivity and output with fixed or declining budgets. Spurred by new compliance regulations, the rise of outsourcing options, flattened budgets, and calls by senior management to "run IT more like a business," CIOs are under pressure to impose more formal processes on IT activities.

SEER for IT has a collection of estimation elements (process models) which can be used to define the work required as well as patterns for typical organizational approaches. Each element has a set of inputs, calculations, rates and factors, and a set of outputs. Elements/process models are used to define a project, to compute costs, and to provide logical groupings for IT activities. Users can create custom Knowledge Bases and perform analyses with metrics derived from company project histories and task labor standards. A variety of charts, graphs, and reports are available to quickly summarize and communicate project outcomes, alternatives, and work-in-progress.

Given that the SEER for IT software has its "genetic" origins in the strong and enduring SEER for Software suite, the prospects of this new tool being an excellent industry performer is very good.

For more information on SEER for IT, contact Tony Timbol at DCG or call 904-287-0294.