White Papers
Fuel Cells
The focus on green technologies has generated increased interest in consumer uses of fuel cells for transportation, power supply, emergency backup & portable power supplies for consumer and battlefield applications. Increased usage of any technology begs the question of how to address the costs associated with that technology. This article describes a research effort using publicly- available data to develop cost estimating relationships for various types of power systems that utilize fuel cell technology. Look for our new Fuel Cells cost model in TruePlanning® 2012.
Cloud Computing - Cloud Nine Are We There Yet?
This paper introduces the concept of cloud computing and discusses the potential benefits as those potential barriers to adoption. It examines the types of applications where cloud computing is an efficient cost effective solution and the types of applications where its use could be problematic or costly. Several examples of successful cloud implementations are presented and discussed.
Costs of Achieving Software Technology Readiness
One problem frequently cited with the definition and application of Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) is that they are extremely hardware focused. Software is different than hardware in that it’s not as obvious what software technology means and how it is best assessed. Software brings almost infinite possibilities for advancements of the state of the art, but these possibilities require the right mix of hardware, tools, people and processes. Assessing the state of software technology becomes a ‘softer’ exercise. Consequently, the issues associated with estimating the costs of transcending Software TRLs become less obvious as well. The paper will clarify the concept of TRLs as they relate to software. It defines components of software technology as they relate to the assessment of technology maturity. It also presents factors that may complicate software TRAs and offers guidance on gaining a better handle on their impacts. Finally, it presents a methodology to give cost estimators and analysts a tool to perform credible cost estimates.
Applying Agile Practices to Improve Software Quality
Increased frustration with failed software projects coupled with fast-paced software development efforts driven by rapidly changing business needs is driving software development organizations to revisit the way they go about building software. Agile development has emerged as one possible solution. Agile enthusiasts claim significant increases in the quality of their software while detractors cite instances where quality decreases. How do business leaders decide whether agile is a higher quality solution then their current practices? This paper studies agile development with an eye toward its impacts on software quality.
Software Development Cost Estimating
The purpose of the Software Development Estimating Guidebook is to provide the cost analyst with a resource manual to use in developing credible software development cost estimates. A realistic estimate is based upon a solid understanding of the software development process and the historical data that forms a framework for the expected values. An estimating methodology that follows a proven process consistent with best practices and Department of Defense (DoD) policies further contributes to estimate validity.
Hardware Estimating Model for TruePlanning
The PRICE (Parametric Review of Information for Costing and Evaluation) Hardware Model is a computerized method for deriving cost estimates of electronic and mechanical hardware components, sub-assemblies, assemblies and systems.
Software Estimating Model for TruePlanning
Software project management continues to present new challenges to those responsible for planning and oversight of software development projects. Software projects are often over budget, delivered late or fail outright as a result of failure to properly estimate and control these projects early on in the project lifecycle.
True IT Commercial Whitepaper
As a cost estimating tool, True IT breaks new ground. True IT estimates IT infrastructure costs as well as the costs of developing and deploying enterprise software applications.
Emerging Technologies
Estimating Service Oriented Architecture
Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) projects can present substantial potential benefits to organizations by providing cost savings, data sharing, interoperability and increasingly agile operations. However dimensions of this new approach to leveraging technologies throughout an organization require shifts in estimating practices. This paper focuses on three such areas: SOA Governance, middleware integration, and service development.
Streamlining IT Project Estimation and Planning
Successful project planning requires the estimator to understand and demonstrate the impact of project constraints. Translating project requirements into measures of scope, cost, and schedule is the first priority.
The Real Costs of Developing COTS-Based Systems
This paper documents the first steps in an on-going PRICE Systems initiative intended to develop cost estimating relationships that would help make planning COTS projects easier and more accurate.
Why COTS Fail
Companies are relying more and more on third party applications to either supplement, enhance or replace proprietary systems. Read how one of the biggest problems sighted in implementing third party software is the disconnect between time and cost expectations during planning.
Cost and Business Impacts of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA)
Learn how an SOA approach takes advantage of networking capabilities that integrate applications in a way that is independent of architecture, programming language, development platform, or vendor.
The PRICE TruePlanning® Estimating Suite 2007
Read about PRICE Systems' latest product release, TruePlanning® 2007.
Product Life Cycle Management
The Affordability Challenge
Cost, schedule, and performance problems in the Department of DefenseÕs weapon system programs are still prevalent and threaten to weaken the DODÕs ability to support US armed forces with required capabilities.. This paper takes a look at the Affordability Process which has become increasingly necessary methodology to ensure that programs develop a realistic approach to understanding how much performance they can afford and deliver in order to avoid cost overruns and delays.
The Evolution of Hardware Estimating
Survey findings on technology trends, obsolescence, systems engineering, COTS, integration and testing are discussed in this new white paper, which was presented by PRICE and awarded best paper for the Hardware Track at the 2007 Joint ISPA-SCEA Conference in New Orleans.
Tackling the Cost Challenges of System of Systems
The DoD and its contractors face unprecedented challenges in planning System of Systems (SoS) projects. The challenges are intensified by heavy dependencies on software. This paper presents research of cost issues associated with delivery of SOS capabilities.
Affordability Simulation: Cost Analysis in a Simulation Environment
Read how affordability simulation improves Systems of Systems (SoS) cost management by providing a means to understand cost trade-offs much earlier in the design process. Our white paper on the subject identifies the challenges, how they are being overcome, and the value to SoS mission planners and designers.
The PRICE TruePlanning® Estimating Suite 2007
Read about PRICE Systems' latest product release, TruePlanning® 2007.
Project and Portfolio Management - General
Respect the Triangle: Scope, Time, and Cost
This paper discusses the three Project Killer Archetypes and presents a framework that leverages the project management triangle and creates the space for effective constraint communication and negotiation.
The PRICE TruePlanning® Estimating Suite 2007
Read about PRICE Systems' latest product release, TruePlanning® 2007.
The GAO Cost Guide and Compliance: Controlling Costs and Risk
Read about the development and purpose of the new Cost Guide created by the Government Accountability Office for use by government and industry organizations.
6 Steps to Program Success
According to the Office of Electronic Government and Information Technology (OEGIT), only 25% of the 1,400 projects reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget in 2002 achieved the office's goals. More than $21 billion worth of the $59.3 billion IT projects are dubbed "at risk" because of inadequate project planning article. PRICE outlines six steps to control costs, minimize risk, increase visibility, and ensure program success.
Program Affordability Management Center of Excellence
Since programs compete for limited dollars and resources and are challenged to "do more with less," defense & civilian program managers and industry contractors must embrace a "true cost" approach to succeed in today's business climate. This paper outlines how to implement this integrated "true cost" approach. We call it Program Affordability Management™.
Making the Case for Program Affordability Management
Read how Program Affordability Management provides the proactive ability to manage risk and keep programs on target. The proven approach improves ability to control costs, minimize risk, increase visibility, and ensure program success.
Affordability Management in a Performance-Based Acquisition World
One of the most important challenges facing government programs today is the need for widespread adoption of performance-based acquisition to meet mission and program needs. This paper discusses a detailed alignment of the best practices in Performance Based Acquisition and the critical activities of Affordability Management.
Knowledge Retention for Acquisition Professionals
Whether it’s a government program office or contractor, the problem is the same—the acquisition workforce is strained. Consider, however, that an Acquisition Knowledge Environment (AKE) methodology can produce a remedy.
Project and Portfolio Management - Project Focused
Calculating a Program Office's Return on Investment
This comprehensive white paper, complete with real-world examples of quantitative ROI, examines cognitive approaches successful program managers use to overcome cost estimating and management challenges.
The International Space Station Management and Cost Evaluations Task Force
The NASA-led International Space Station (ISS) is a technological marvel and a great feat of international cooperation. The ISS also is an out-of-control project, one that needs an immediate managerial overhaul to assure its productivity and retain its promise of being a world-class orbiting laboratory.
Project and Portfolio Management - IT Focused
Jumpstart Your VAL IT Process
A value methodology is any system or process that facilitates IT investment decision-making based on a systemic analysis of how that investment enhances the business. Such methodologies are important for organizations.
The Evolution of Software Size - A Search for Value
Software size measurement continues to be a contentious issue in the software engineering community. This paper reviews software sizing methodologies employed through the years, focusing on their uses and misuses.
Cost Management and IT Projects – The Truth Is Out There
This paper examines the issues of cost containment verses cost management, the limits of cost containment, the Project Triangle of Scope, Schedule, and Budget, and how Cost Management is the foundation for high productivity in Information Technology.
Improving IT Planning Processes - A Missed Perspective
This paper analyzes the practical definitions of common terms and processes. Observations and shortcomings of current best practices within project management, cost management and software engineering are also covered. Remedies to be successful are revealed.
Estimating Software from Requirements
How do we determine the feasibility of a particular software project without breaking the bank on a project that we may ultimately determine is an unacceptable choice based on the feasibility study?
Aligning IT with Business Objectives - Maintaining the Connection
The alignment of business goals with IT project requirements is fundamental to both the immediate success of a project and the long term success
of the organization. While IT has become a critical part of business, IT projects still experience problems with meeting expectations. Better alignment between business and IT could solve many of the issues that organizations cite as the cause of these problems.
Estimating Software from Use Cases
Use cases can be available very early in the lifecycle of a software project and offer promise in addressing the needs of project managers who require estimates early before significant decisions have been made.
Government IT Modernization: A PRICE Systems Customer Story
Read how one US Government Agency found a way to boost their success rate, satisfy the oversight organizations, and surpass their internal goals.
A Cracked Foundation: A Critical Look at the Role of Baselining in Government IT Project Management
According to a new market study conducted by PRICE Systems, only 18% of government IT executives expressed confidence in their program budgets, with 69% reporting that they typically notice problems about midway through their programs. These and other results of the study are discussed.
PRICE Systems Cost Expertise Arms a Leading Systems Integrator to Capture over $400 Million in IT Task Orders
Strategic cost solutions and consultancy expertise by PRICE Systems enables Systems Integrator to submit affordable and on-target bids to provide business and technical transformation services.
Archives
