Question:
Hi,
Is there any estimation guidelines in SAPNET.
For example we have to build 5 Reports,one infocube,one ODS,one Infosource and datasource configuration. We estimated as follows:
Using Bus.content:
Simple query- 1 day
simple infocube 2-3 days,
Simple ODS 1-2 days,
Simpel Infosource 1-2 days
MediumDatasource configuration 1-2 days
Then we added a percentage of the total for requirements gathering,design,testing,transport,acceptance,user training,documentaion.
There should be better methods of estimation than using finger tips as above.
Please post any of your experiences on estimation and time lines.
As far as SAPNET is considered there are sizing documents but not the one I am looking for.
The information you post would be certainly useful for anyone beginning with requiremetns and want to know how to estimate.
THANKS IN ADVANCE,
BW
Answer:
If your estimates are simply for building the content, they might be OK. The problem is that (at least for us) whether its business content or not, there is a whole (1) process of finding out exactly the information to be reported on in R/3, then we have a (2) determination of whether or not business content fits. Next we have to (3) verify the business content if it is accurate and actually getting what is needed. If there is additional information needed, then (4) we have to extend the DS's for the business content to include what is missing. Invariably, we end up (5) building our own BW content, such as ODS's, Cubes and IO's to support the information. Next we (6) internally verify the data coming over before putting it to our (7) analysts and power users to verify the data.
All of this depending on the complexity or amount of information required, even if it is business content can take weeks. It can take a huge amount of time to verify datasources because they are not well or accurately documented, and there is a lot of code to go through to verify what you are seeing is actually coming from where you expect it.
This can take days or weeks depending on the level of complexity.
Building reports or additional reporting objects once you have the data in BW itself is really pretty easy and straightforward. A simple query most likely could take less then 10 minutes to build.
A simple InfoSource and Datasource configuration and verification could take at least a week, not 1-2 days. It also depends on the availability of a knowledgeable user from a technical standpoint of the content area you are trying to pull.
HTH,
- Stephen