Quantitative method to investigate investments: forecasting for R&D organizations

A general model of a quantitative method is described for examining the investments needed in purchasing advanced development systems (ADSs). A similar process is depicted in an electronic department of a research and development unit. These ADSs serve in the developed of microprocessor-based applications. The author emphasises the logical process which enables one to quantify and analyze the various factors and to make decisions accordingly. The model relies on parameters such as: number of developers, average development time, a programmed software ratio factor, and a development system efficiency factor. The investigation and analysis executed for the system described enables managers to obtain quantitative data for decision making. These data are based on the logical system´s evaluation in three steps: examination of the technology trend, short-term planning, and long-term planning