Abstract
Software cost estimation is an important both for buyers and sellers(developers). We reviewed domestic and foreign researches and practices on software cost estimation with function point method comprehensively, In this paper, we derived four promising alternative function point models. They are an IFPUG(International Function Point User Group)-based model(Model I), a shorthand model for client/sever software systems(Model II), a data-oricnted model for relatively large software projects(Model III), and a general- purpose function point model for non business application softwares as well as business applications(Model IV). Empirical data shows that Model I, II, and IV are very useful function point models. In particular, model II and IV look very useful models since they are concise and accurate. These models can be incorporated in a new improved guideline for software cost estimation. General opinion survey shows that Model I, II and IV are preferable. There are no significant differences in preference between buyers and sellers. The survey also shows that users think function point method is better than step(line of code)-oriented cost estimation methods in many ways including objectivity and estimation accuracy.