Function Point

A function point is a unit of measure that expresses the amount of business functionality a piece of software provides to a user, independent of the technology used to build it. Counting function points gives a size estimate based on what the software does, not how many lines of code it takes.

Because it is technology-neutral, function point analysis is used to estimate effort, compare productivity, and size software projects consistently. It is one of several sizing techniques a team can use when estimating.

Related: estimate, effort, story point.

Last updated: 4 July 2026 · By Tom, PMP-certified since 2004

Related Articles:

 
  • Acceptance – Definition Acceptance is the noun form of the previously defined verb “accept“. It represents the state of being in which one...
    •  
  • Why You Should Consider Becoming a PMI-certified Project Management Professional (PMP) The landscape of project management is continually evolving, and professionals need to stay updated to remain relevant in the industry....
    •  
  • The History of Project Management The pyramids. Built thousands of years ago. Huge buildings. In some cases, with very complex structures inside. How likely is...
    •  
  • Search ...
    •  
  • Earned Value Technique Earned Value Technique which refers specifically to the specific technique in which the actual values of the work related performance...