Estimating Effort

Estimation Techniques for Data Migration Effort

There are four basic methods.

Top Down Estimating

Typically used to determine a rough order of magnitude early in the project lifecycle based on past experience. May be based on previous projects or on 'gut-feel'.

Bottom Up Estimating

Work is broken down into tasks and each is estimated.

The Delphi Method

Uses a consensus-of-experts approach to arrive at an agreed estimate. Various 'games' exist to facilitate this process.

Parametric Estimating

A 'standard' task is measured. All other work is then estimated based on that estimate, or the total effort determined by extrapolation.