“Estimation is the process of finding an estimate, or approximation, which is a value that is usable for some purpose even if input data may be incomplete, uncertain, or unstable.
Three point estimation is the estimation method is based on statistical data. It is very much similar to WBS technique, task are broken down into subtasks & three types of estimation are done on this sub pieces.
Optimistic Estimate (Best case scenario in which nothing goes wrong and all conditions are optimal.) = A
Most Likely Estimate (most likely duration and there may be some problem but most of the things will go right.) = M
Pessimistic Estimate (worst case scenario which everything goes wrong.) = B
Formula to find Value for Estimate (E) = A + (4*M) + B / 6
Standard Deviation (SD) = = (B – A)/6
Now a days, planning poker and Delphi estimates are most popular testing test estimation techniques.
Functional Point is measured from a functional, or user, point of view.It is independent of computer language, capability, technology or development methodology of the team. It is based on available documents like SRS, Design etc.
In this FP technique we have to give weightage to each functional point. Prior to start actual estimating tasks functional points are divided into three groups like Complex, Medium & Simple. Based on similar projects & Organization standards we have to define estimate per function points.
Total Effort Estimate = Total Function Points * Estimate defined per Functional Point
Test Estimation is a management activity which approximates how long a Task would take to complete. Estimating effort for the test is one of the major and important tasks in Test Management.
Delphi technique – This is one of the widely used software testing estimation technique.
In the Delphi Method is based on surveys and basically collects the information from participants who are experts. In this estimation technique each task is assigned to each team member & over multiple rounds surveys are conduct unless & until a final estimation of task is not finalized. In each round the thought about task are gathered & feedback is provided. By using this method, you can get quantitative and qualitative results.
In overall techniques this technique gives good confidence in the estimation. This technique can be used with the combination of the other techniques.
There are different Software Testing Estimation Techniques which can be used for estimating a task.
List of Software Test Estimation Techniques:
Work Breakdown Structure has four key benefits: