What is the purpose of estimates of size and effort in the Planning practice of CMMI?

The purpose of estimates of size and effort in the Planning practice of CMMI is primarily to develop and update the budget and schedule for a project. Accurate estimations enable project managers to create realistic timelines and allocate resources effectively, ensuring that the project can be executed within the desired timeframe and financial constraints. This process is crucial for effective project planning, as it allows teams to identify how much work will be required, how long it will take, and what resources are necessary, subsequently leading to more informed decision-making throughout the project's lifecycle.

While other options may have their place in project management, they do not represent the primary function of size and effort estimates within the context of CMMI Planning practices. Establishing employee performance metrics relates more to evaluating individual contributions rather than project planning. Creating training programs for staff focuses on skill development instead of resource allocation and project scheduling. Evaluating project risks is an important aspect of overall project management but is typically conducted separately from the initial estimation process. Thus, the development and updating of the budget and schedule remains the central purpose of these estimates within the framework of CMMI.