Top Management Support for Software Cost Estimation

Abstract

Now, a few weeks before defending my thesis in front of the public, is a good time to stop and think why did I do it. I'm 45 years old, working long days in a busy company, and have a family and hobbies. It's been busy. However, I've always enjoyed learning new things. Also, I value education, and I admire researchers and practitioners, who discover novelties, contribute and make a difference. With my thesis, I wanted to make sure that I continue learning. I also had a dream of contributing myself. Now, that dream comes true. I wish that my work could help software professionals, even a little, to run more successful projects. That's why I did it.Good things get even better in good company. I've had a dream team backing me and my work during the process, and I've enjoyed every bit of it. Ville, please accept my gratitude for your effort, persistence, practicality, wisdom and advise, among many other things. Without you and your team this wouldn't have been possible. Sami, you taught me everything, and showed that science can be fun. I'll always be grateful to you for being a mentor and companion to me during the journey. I'd also like to thank Jukka Teuhola for planting the seed for all of this during my Master's studies.My sincere thanks also go to prof. Markku Oivo and prof. Jürgen Munch, who acted as pre-examiners to my thesis. Your suggestions were welcome. I'm also thankful to prof. Kari Systä for accepting the demanding role of the opponent, and taking the time to review my work. Of other scholars, I'd like to thank prof. Tommi Mikkonen for minding and supporting, prof. Marko Seppänen for the NPD stuff, and prof. Ivan Porres for methodology ninjutsu. Jukka and Johannes, thanks for the stats, you rock! Joonas, thanks for making it possible to combine the research with my position as Vaadin's COO. Tapio, thanks for your generous offer, which I happily accepted, to pay for the drinks consumed in the after party. I'd also like to thank N4S research programme for providing a superior framework for research, and methodology Table 3.3: Interviewees' roles in the company Role Department Length (min) CEO,