COSYSMO: A Systems Engineering Cost Model

Abstract

Building on the synergy between systems engineering and software engineering, we have developed a parametric model to estimate systems engineering costs. The goal of this model called COSYSMO (Constructive Systems Engineering Cost Model), is to more accurately estimate the time and effort associated with performing the system engineering tasks in complex systems. This article describes how COSYSMO was developed and summarizes its size drivers and effort multipliers. We conclude with an example estimate to illustrate the usage of the model to estimate systems engineering cost.