Software cost estimation involves predicting resources required for development using metrics like productivity, size, and function points. The COCOMO 2 model is an empirical algorithmic model that estimates effort as a function of product, project, and process attributes. It operates at three levels - early prototyping based on object points, early design using function points mapped to lines of code, and post-architecture directly using lines of code. Key cost drivers include requirements, personnel experience, reuse, and development flexibility.

7. Software pricing factors

13. High and low level languages

14. System development times

20. Factors affecting productivity

37. Estimate uncertainty

39. COCOMO 81

42. Object point productivity

47. Exponent scale factors

49. Project cost drivers

50. Effects of cost drivers

52. Management options

53. Management options costs