Function point counting is a useful estimation technique, and generally produces a more accurate estimate than analogy, although it is often considerably more time-consuming because it requires careful analysis of the requirements, and the estimates will also differ depending on the tools that will be used to implement the system (and these will often not have been completely-defined at earlier points in the project, so it will be more effective to apply this technique once documents such as the design document; implementation plan; or system architecture have been created).

Unfortunately I’m too lazy to finish this article right now, but please let me know if you’d like to!

chris@bennettscash.id.au