Learning Curve Theory

The Learning Curve Deskbook

Learning curves are now recognized throughout the business community as valuable aids to improving productivity in the workplace. This volume is a clear and concise handbook intended to provide both the technical and the non-technical reader with a basic understanding of the underlying theory of learning curves, as well as ready access to commonly used learning curve models, formulas, and tables. Since the book itself is meant to be a handy reference guide, it is organized to make needed information easily available. After a review of basic learning curve theory and a comparison of the most frequently used models, an extensive list of equations is accompanied by everyday examples that illustrate the correct application of learning curve theory as well as solutions to problems that may arise. Tables, graphs, and charts, easily located in the appendixes, can facilitate computations, and a bibliography lists articles, pamphlets, and books that describe learning curve theory and its various uses over the past fifty years. Learning curve analysis, simplified and presented here in a convenient manual, will enable accounting, financial, and purchasing specialists to improve not only employee proficiency forecasting, but also the efficiency of their own productivity.

Learning Curves

Cost Estimation

Presents an accessible approach to the cost estimation tools, concepts, and techniques needed to support analytical and cost decisions Written with an easy-to-understand approach, Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools provides comprehensive coverage of the quantitative techniques needed by professional cost estimators and for those wanting to learn about this vibrant career field. Featuring the underlying mathematical and analytical principles of cost estimation, the book focuses on the tools and methods used to predict the research and development, production, and operating and support costs for successful cost estimation in industrial, business, and manufacturing processes. The book begins with a detailed historical perspective and key terms of the cost estimating field in order to develop the necessary background prior to implementing the presented quantitative methods. The book proceeds to fundamental cost estimation methods utilized in the field of cost estimation, including working with inflation indices, regression analysis, learning curves, analogies, cost factors, and wrap rates. With a step-by-step introduction to the practicality of cost estimation and the available resources for obtaining relevant data, Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools also features: Various cost estimating tools, concepts, and techniques needed to support business decisions Multiple questions at the end of each chapter to help readers obtain a deeper understanding of the discussed methods and techniques An overview of the software used in cost estimation, as well as an introduction to the application of risk and uncertainty analysis A Foreword from Dr. Douglas A. Brook, a professor in the Graduate School of Business and Public Policy at the Naval Postgraduate School, who spent many years working in the Department of Defense acquisition environment Cost Estimation: Methods and Tools is an excellent reference for academics and practitioners in decision science, operations research, operations management, business, and systems and industrial engineering, as well as a useful guide in support of professional cost estimation training and certification courses for practitioners. The book is also appropriate for graduate-level courses in operations research, operations management, engineering economics, and manufacturing and/or production processes.