A Tutorial on Function Point Analysis - This article provides an introduction to Function Point Analysis and its application in non-traditional computing situations. Software engineers have been searching for a metric that is applicable for a broad range of software environments. The metric should be technology independent and support the need for estimating, project management, measuring quality and gathering requirements. Function Point Analysis is rapidly becoming the measure of choice for these tasks: it has been proven as a reliable method for measuring the size of computer software; and in addition to measuring output, it is extremely useful in estimating projects, managing change of scope, measuring productivity, and communicating functional requirements. There have been many misconceptions regarding the appropriateness of Function Point Analysis in evaluating emerging environments such as real time embedded code and Object Oriented programming. Since function points express the resulting work-product in terms of functionality as seen from the user's perspective, the tools and technologies used to deliver it are independent. This tutorial provides an introduction to Function Point Analysis and further discussion of potential benefits.
COSMIC Measurement Method V3.0: Four Documents - The Common Software Measurement International Consortium ('COSMIC') is pleased to announce that the major upgrade of the COSMIC Functional Size Measurement Method, version 3.0, is now available. The four documents are as follows, and can be downloaded from the web site:
COSMIC Method v3.0 Documentation Overview
COSMIC Method v3.0 Method Overview
COSMIC Method v3.0 Measurement Manual
COSMIC Method v3.0 Advanced & Related Topics
Free Function Point Training Manual - The free function point manual can be downloaded at www.MetricsTraining.Com. The manual is approximately 100 pages long and includes exercises to reinforce many concepts.
DACS Gold Practice Initiative
