Distribution patterns of effort estimations

Effort estimations within software development projects and the ability to work within these estimations are perhaps the single most important, and at the same time inadequately mastered, discipline for overall project success. This study examines some characteristics of accuracies in software development efforts and identifies patterns that can be used to increase the understanding of the effort estimation discipline as well as to improve the accuracy of effort estimations. The study complements current research by taking a more simplistic approach than usually found within mainstream research concerning effort estimations. It shows that there are useful patterns to be found as well as interesting causalities, usable to increase the understanding and effort estimation capability.

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