Estimation for embedded OEM projects

In order to meet the time-to-market requirement with acceptable quality and cost constraints, many embedded product companies start looking towards turn-key suppliers for leveraging their competencies in a cost-effective manner without compromising on the brand-specific features and quality. Suppliers, on the other hand, have to face multiple OEM customers with sometimes conflicting requirements and have the big responsibility to manage the product development and customization in a non-destructive way. In particular, this paper describes a particular estimation practice that was followed in HDD-DVD recorder product customization to handle different brands to meet their cost, schedule & quality requirements. The end result is a high degree of accuracy in estimation that reduces the risk of overrunning cost or schedule and a mutually rewarding relationship with the customer.