Estimating the Development of an Educational Online Platform: Insights and Challenges
The question posed by experienced software engineers about the time it takes to build an educational online platform, akin to Codecademy, is a comprehensive one that touches on both technical and business aspects. While the answer can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances, such as the scope of the project and the experience level of the team, it is essential to break down the process to gain a clearer understanding.
Measuring the Functional Size
One approach to estimating the development time is to 'measure the functional size' of the project. This can be achieved using Function Points methodologies such as IFPUG and Cosmic. By determining the amount of functionality that needs to be built, one can derive an approximation of the effort required. Once the functional size is established, industry benchmark data, such as that provided by ISBSG, can be used to estimate the industry average for similar projects in terms of effort, duration, and staffing.
To refine this initial estimate, the specific project circumstances can be taken into account. For instance, the productivity and performance of the team, project constraints, platform methodology, and quality expectations all play a crucial role. Various estimation tools can assist in this process. The result of this exercise would provide several possible estimates for effort, duration, staffing, and quality based on different scenarios. These estimates can then be compared with other approaches, such as a bottom-up approach, to determine the most applicable scenario for the situation at hand.
Estimation Challenges
Estimating the development of an educational online platform, especially one similar to Codecademy, is a complex task. The response to the original question can be influenced by factors such as whether the project is an in-house development or a commercial product. In many cases, involving junior developers in such a project can be counterproductive. These developers may lack the experience and expertise required to contribute effectively, especially in the initial stages of content creation and platform development.
The development of the platform itself is likely to be a relatively quick process, particularly if building blocks from existing platforms are utilized. However, the development of content, particularly the educational material that forms the backbone of such a platform, can be significantly more time-consuming. Ensuring that the content is of high quality and attracts a base of paying users while breaking even operationally can take much longer and is largely dependent on the amount of resources available and the speed at which one wishes to achieve these goals.
Experience and Expertise Matters
Experience and expertise are key factors in successfully developing an educational online platform. Both in terms of technology and business, inexperienced teams may struggle to bring the project to fruition. Skilled professional teachers and subject matter experts are required to produce high-quality educational content, which can take a considerable amount of time to develop, review, and refine. Professional consultants and estimation tools can provide valuable assistance in this process, although they come at a cost.
Conclusion: Estimating the development of an educational online platform, like Codecademy, involves recognizing the contributions of different aspects of the project and understanding the unique challenges associated with each. While a detailed estimation process can provide valuable insights, the reality is that such projects, especially those involving substantial content creation, can take a considerable amount of time to complete.
Key Points: Measure the functional size using Function Points methodologies. Consider industry benchmark data such as ISBSG for initial estimates. Refine estimates based on specific project circumstances. Ensure experienced teams with the necessary expertise are involved.
By taking these factors into account, one can make a more accurate and informed estimate of the time required to develop an educational online platform.