(PRINCETON JUNCTION, NJ; October 13, 2009) – The International Function Point Users Group (IFPUG) announced that it has released the latest version of the IFPUG Counting Practices Manual (CPM). The CPM is the body of knowledge used by function point analysts to measure the functional size of applications and projects for benchmarking and estimating world-wide for many domains and business areas. The CPM is the “must have” document for those seeking to become Certified Function Point Specialists.

The CPM is an internationally approved standard under ISO/IEC 14143-1 Information Technology – Software Measurement. This revision to the CPM further clarifies the rules and enhances the definitions and examples, thereby enabling a more consistent interpretation and application of rules. Part 1 of the CPM is a copy of the Functional Size Measurement Method (FSM), the ISO standard, which describes the process, definitions, and rules. The existing Part 1 material has been moved to Part 2 – The Bridge. Parts 2, 3, 4 and the Appendices have been updated and enhanced with additional examples and guidance.

Effective January 1, 2010, CPM 4.3 replaces 4.2 as the current IFPUG method. CPM 4.3 may be purchased directly from IFPUG at http://www.ifpug.org/publications/puborder.htm. It is also available to current IFPUG members as a free for download on the member side of the IFPUG website.