Reference Class estimating

This forum includes discussion about project risk analysis and risk management theory: Monte Carlo simulations, Event Chain Methodology, schedule and cost risk analysis. Please submit questions and case studies about your experience with our project risk analysis software.

Moderator: Intaver Support

Post Reply
ProjectM
Posts: 6
Joined: Sun Feb 26, 2006 4:50 pm
Location: France

Reference Class estimating

Post by ProjectM » Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:14 pm

What is reference class estimating?

Intaver Support
Posts: 992
Joined: Wed Nov 09, 2005 9:55 am

Re: Reference Class estimating

Post by Intaver Support » Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:15 pm

Reference class estimating, also called reference class forecasting, is a method that uses the data from previous similar project or tasks to establish a probability distribution that can be the basis for forecasting he planned activities or project. The use of this historical data provides strong empirical basis to support probabilistic estimates. However, new or emerging knowledge or unique circumstances of your particular project should be taken into account. For example if you are introducing a new technology, you may need to add wider range of uncertainty to those activities that it will directly affect.

Another issue to consider when looking at reference classes is that it only provides the range of outcomes for previous projects and provides no context into the root causes of the variations and what steps you can take to improve your processes and minimize your chance of cost and schedule overruns.
Intaver Support Team
Intaver Institute Inc.
Home of Project Risk Management and Project Risk Analysis software RiskyProject
www.intaver.com

Post Reply