The challenge of introducing a new software cost estimation technology into a small software organisation

Fostering innovation is the key to survival in today´s IT business and is exemplified by introducing new technologies and methods to improve the development processes. We present a follow-up case study of technology transfer in a small software organisation. A new software estimation technique, Web-CoBRA was introduced to a small software company to improve their software estimation process. Web-CoBRA was considerably more accurate than the company´s current estimation process. However, despite management being aware of this improvement, the company has not fully adopted the new method. We used interviews and the technology acceptance model (TAM) questionnaire to assess the extent to which Web-CoBRA was used by the company. We found take-up of part of the Web-CoBRA technology but the full technology and the support tools were not used. We identify the reasons for the failure to adopt the Web-CoBRA technology and identify several areas for improving technology transfer activities.