Task: Develop Effort Estimates

Identify Roles

List all roles for the domain used in the project.

Resources

Consider the number of resources (testers) available for the project. If the resources are new hires, consider the time for training and their skill level.

Once completed, submit the estimate to the project management team.

Identify Key Tasks

By role and phase of the lifecycle, identify key tasks so that a bulk of the work is accounted. For initial estimates, the numbers are "rough" and there will be opportunities to refine the estimates in a later phase of the lifecycle.

Technology/Tools

If new technology or tools are being implemented, consider the learning curve and training in estimates. Consider the third party dependencies if any.

Review Artifacts

Review appropriate documents, notes, and artifacts that help in determining time and resources required to complete identified tasks and activities.

Identify Estimates

For each role and each task assigned to the role, define the amount of effort (in hours, or days as requested by the project manager) requried to complete each task.

Communicate Estimates

Communicate the total effort for each domain to the project manager for further development of the project plan or project schedule.