The Implementation of Estimation

The implementation of estimation is an innovative project and as such, it must be planned and performed with as much rigor as any other formal IT project. The estimation process is the foundation for successful communication as well as for monitoring and improvement of the project management processes. As in all innovative projects, it is important to take notice of and plan for acceptance issues, that is, for resistance to occur.

In Europe, we speak of the “king’s road,” which is the means to accomplish the best outcomes. This means that the road to gain acceptance in any innovative or new endeavor consists of information, training, and participation of all involved persons. In addition, there is need for time to pass in order to foster awareness for the innovations. If this cornerstone is omitted during the implementation of an IT metrics program, then it has a good chance, as proven by 80% of all IT metrics initiatives (Dekkers 1999), to be abandoned early and without success. An IT metrics program is a strategic project and should be viewed as such. Otherwise, if the project is perceived as extra overhead, its chances of success are minimized.