Software estimation process: a comparison of the estimation practice between Norway and Spain

Abstract

This research presents a comparative study regarding the current state of the software estimation practice in Norway and Spain. A survey was conducted within the software in- dustry in both countries, and the results are analyzed and discussed in this thesis. Significant differences are found in how companies in these two countries estimate software projects. Estimation methods, units, agile techniques, participants and their respective roles, as well as to what extent the customer can influence the estimation process, are some of the main topics presented. The selection of development methods might have been a key factor be- hind the differences we find in the estimation process between the company samples in Norway and Spain.