How to evaluate a project?

Software development projects almost always go through subsequent iterations. The client can add new requirements or propose fixes that expand the scope of the project. And although the scope of the project’s functionality may change, the project deadline should not be delayed or delayed forever. This is why it is sometimes difficult to accurately evaluate a software project. by determining how much time and effort you need to complete it. Fortunately, there is something here that can help.

Your work methodology affects productivity and effort

As a developer, you should be aware that there is more than one model of work. You’ve probably heard the Waterfall or Kanban, Lean, FDD models. In previous articles we mentioned the Agile method, which seems to be the right one when it comes to managing huge projects. Agile methodology. although it was created after Waterfall, it is better adapted to changing requirements. The traditional model implies a higher cost of iterations.

To evaluate a software project, start by choosing a work model that best suits these questions:

• What is the scope of the project? Is there a need to quickly create an MVP that takes priority over the rest of the functions? Is the client confident in all the requirements?
• What’s the budget?
• Who will be on the development team?
• What operating models have been successfully used in the past in terms of volume, time and cost?

Why is the right model needed?

The nature of the model more or less allows for corrections and changes during the work on the project. Some methods are not suitable for making changes in the middle of work. Choosing an Agile approach, in which work is divided into “sprints”, after each of them you get feedback on the progress This way, your estimates will be more accurate because you can control what gets done and what remains, and it is not a problem when you make a lot of changes.

Learn from your previous experience

Our assessments are based on our skills and past experience. Take a look at recent projects and see how much time and effort you have put into them. You may be familiar with the chosen technology, so you know the mechanism and possible difficulties of its use. On the other hand, as software developers Providing, we strive to find new, better solutions that we have not tried before, so sometimes we do not have enough knowledge to correctly evaluate our work. However, it is good when the initial assessment is based on your previous cooperation.

Avoid overestimating

Developers can complete multiple projects. They need to switch between tasks and this can be very difficult. Another question to consider when estimating time and effort is how many projects are you currently doing? And when you answer this question, you can also to find the answer to the question, how much can you really do? The word “real” is important here. The fear that something will coincide and not be delivered makes us overestimate the time needed. Then, instead of doing the smaller task as usual, you estimate that it will take you a whole day for this particular feature.

Revise assessment

It is very common for clients to improve their initial idea while it is already being implemented. Therefore, the best solution is to evaluate the project along with the development process. By including feedback from clients and your team, you can write code in a more efficient way, minimizing subsequent effort. Moreover, with each As product requirements change, the scope of the project and hence the initial estimate change. Frequent estimates are the smartest choice and will provide you with the most recent and accurate results.

Last thing

Remember to inform your customers of any obstacles along the way. Sometimes the integration with an external server can cause many problems and take longer than expected. That is why it is better to be in constant contact and keep everyone informed.