CoBRA

Abstract

Cost estimation, benchmarking, and risk assessment (CoBRA) method is a hybrid effort estimation method. It represents a model-based, parametric estimation method that implements a define-your-own-model approach. Briand et al. (1998) developed it specifically for the purpose of software effort estimation, and it considers the most relevant constraints and capabilities of software engineering contexts. The method has the capability of combining typically scarce measurement data with the expertise of human experts into an intuitive graphical effort model. These three aspects—little requirements on available measurement data, capability of utilizing humans, and a simple theoretical basis—make this method especially attractive in software engineering contexts.

Further Reading

• A. Trendowicz (2013), Software Cost Estimation, Benchmarking, and Risk Assessment. Software Decision Makers’ Guide for Predictable Software Development. Springer Verlag.

  In this book, we provide a detailed description of the CoBRA method. The book provides a comprehensive specification of processes for developing a CoBRA effort model and for applying the model in a number of different project management scenarios. For each of these processes, we describe detailed activities that need to be performed and associated techniques. We illustrate the presented concepts through a number of examples and graphical illustrations. Moreover, we provide a number of practical guidelines on applying these processes, based on industrial experiences regarding project effort estimation, in general, and using the CoBRA method, in particular. Furthermore, we present several real-world cases of applying the CoBRA method in various industrial contexts for illustrating the practical usage of the method.