cost estimation in software development project, Function Points?

Software Engineering by Hans van Vleet quotes that one function point is 100 lines of COBOL (!), if that's any good to you. There's data out there for converting lines of code to staff-months, project duration, etc.

Do you have access to a library? Start with a general book on software engineering, or one of Steve McConnell's various books. They will contain data, and references to more data.

• Rapid Development
• Code Complete 2
• I mustn't forget Software Estimation. Personally I haven't yet read it that, but his other books are excellent.

Be aware that tracking progress and controlling the project scope are probably at least as important to success as the original estimate.