What is Function Point Analysis? Function Point Analysis (FPA) is an ISO recognized method to measure the functional size of an information system. The functional size reflects the amount of functionality that is relevant to and recognized by the user in the business. It is independent of the technology used to implement the system. Function Points measures systems from a functional perspective they are independent of technology. Regardless of language, development method, or hardware platform used, the number of function points for a system will remain constant. The only variable is the amount of effort needed to deliver a given set of function points. The unit of measurement is "function points". So, FPA expresses the functional size of an information system in a number of function points (for example: the size of a system is 314 FPs). The functional size may be used: to budget application development or enhancement costs to budget the annual maintenance costs of the application portfolio to determine project productivity after completion of the project to determine the Software Size for cost estimating FPA can also be used to find the testing effort required in the information system. Resources http://www.ifpug.org - The International Function Point Users’ Group (IFPUG) is a non-profit, member governed organization. The mission of IFPUG is to be a recognized leader in promoting and encouraging the effective management of application software development and maintenance activities through the use of Function Point Analysis and other software measurement techniques. IFPUG endorses FPA as its standard methodology for software sizing. In support of this, IFPUG maintains the Function Point Counting Practices Manual, the recognized industry standard for FPA. IFPUG also provides a forum for networking and information exchange that promotes and encourages the use of software product and process metrics. Function Point Analysis Message Board