Software Estimation Best Practices

Get Estimation Results Faster with QSM's New SLIM Pilot QuickStart

Estimation can be time-consuming. Whether it's gathering initial requirements from stakeholders, performing risk trade-off analysis, or reworking estimates when plans change, these processes can take days or, worse, weeks that you simply don't have.

We hear that. And at QSM, our goal has always been to make the estimation process as quick and painless as possible. For almost 45 years, we've refined our tools to provide accurate project predictions with very few inputs required. Leveraging the power of industry data and proven mathematical models, you can generate defensible estimates within minutes and examine alternative scenarios without tedious rework. But as with any tool, there is a learning curve and we recognize how hard it is to find time in a busy schedule for training. We want to get you set up and reaping the benefits of our tools so you can get back to working with your team to ensure that your clients and stakeholders are happy with the overall product delivery. This is why we're introducing the SLIM Pilot QuickStart, a training and coaching program with flexible delivery designed to work with individual client schedules.

Software Estimation Training

We believe the best way to learn is to learn by doing. The SLIM Pilot QuickStart program is an online, instructor-led live session that focuses on applying QSM's SLIM estimation tools and best practices to your current measurement problems. This "learn as you go" approach allows you to improve your estimation process quickly to improve the bottom line. The program centers around a 2-hour intro session filled with a wealth of information including: 

  • the practical application of the SLIM tools to solve immediate problems,
  • technical and coaching support to create customized templates,
  • and expert assistance with actual project estimates and tracking.

This means that when you have an estimate to do or a project health-check to deliver, we can meet with you online and work with you to deliver your analysis. Plus, the program is very flexible since it includes follow-on support and additional training on an as-needed basis. 

Estimation is important. It's imperative to know whether or not to move forward with a proposal or a delivery. You also need to know how much the work should cost, how long it should take, and how to manage the risk. Decision-makers need to be able to set reliable delivery targets and negotiate their commitments with clients, vendors, and stakeholders. So the time investment of implementing a defensible, repeatable estimation process is an investment that pays dividends. If you or your team are struggling, we encourage you to leverage our SLIM Pilot QuickStart program that allows you to learn quickly, while counting on us for on-going support.  

Want to learn more? Contact us and we'll show you how easy it is to get started!

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