jpope@axion.bt.co.uk (john pope) (05/23/91)
I'm sorry about the previous version 1. it took a hell of a lot of frigging to get out (a blockage somewhere between us and the world-wide networks) 2. anyone who got it is complaining of the infinite line length. so here goes again: We are looking into the problem of estimating the cost of system analysis/development when the only basis you have for estimating is a strategic plan. This particular problem has been identified from some work using Information Engineering (as per James Martin, Arthur Young MC, Ernst & Young MC etc.) although I understand that the problem exists for any type of strategic planning. In essence, you have a vision of areas for further study (collections of business processes and information needs) prioritised by business goals. You may have a view of the technology you wish to use and the development methods BUT you don't yet know the systems you wish to implement. Saying that though, there seem to be a general set of things which appear eg financial control systems etc. There are, however other novel systems which may give a particular business a strategic edge over its competitors (the whole purpose of the exercise in the first place) and for which no previous analysis/development experience exists. These areas of further study will be analysed to identify information systems which will then be developed in a coordinated fashion. So, how does one estimate (1) the cost of the further analysis, (2) the cost of the subsequent development? If you have any ideas/references, I will be happy to post a digest along with any constructive comments we might think appropriate. Thank you for your attention. John Pope *************************************************************************** e-mail jpope@axion.bt.co.uk (...mcvax!ukc!axion!jpope) 'phone UK +44 473 646651 Royal Mail Requirements Section, Software Technology, G24b SSTF, BTL Martlesham Heath, IPSWICH IP5 7RE, Suffolk, UK in person Room G24b SSTF ***************************************************************************