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OK, how does one geustimate the length of time
needed for a doc?
Especially if it's a cdrl and all you have is the
cdrl description from the sow?
ASrTW tosses in $0.02:
The BEST way to get accurate in estimates is to accumulate your
own (department?) database on past jobs and their times.
In general, only old, established, mature Pubs Depts have the
peoplepower to track productions and maintain the database.
The database includes the doc type, topic, length, writer( 80! )
(no, not a number) , software used, and lots of other fields.
THis topic was presented more than one way at the 1994 STC
convention.
In fact, I'll bet that JoAnn Hackos' software has a
tracking system of some kind, tailored for pubs use.
Until you get your database established, use the mental
equivalent:
A) What have I done that is similar?
B) How long did it take me?
C) How is this new one different and similar?
D) How will the differences affect the new time?
That is what the old timey Wetware has been using for centuries.
No, I don't have a database. Just fond memories.
Dick Dimock, Artfully Senior Tech Writer of Tech Manuals on Tech Subjects
AT&T Global Information Solutions
El Segundo, CA Overlooking, from the 16th floor, the 4th of July
traffic building up to the 15th floor. We take
holidays Seriously! Me, I'm gonna wait for a big wave
and car surf home.
