Dealing with software estimates distortions from the perspective of negotiation theories

Software estimation is a critical task in software projects, and the accuracy of software estimates has been a concern for researchers and practitioners. Researchers have already identified some factors that impact estimates accuracy, like cognitive biases, that ultimately lead to unintentional distortions of software estimates. However, there is evidence that intentional distortions of software estimates are also part of the reality of estimation in software projects. The goal of this research project is to investigate whether negotiation theories can be effective to aid software engineers in defending their estimates and, therefore, reduce distortions. To achieve this, we apply the Design Science Research (DSR) approach by defining and evaluating negotiation guidelines adapted to the context of software project estimation. The problem addressed in this project is investigated through a systematic literature mapping (SLM) and a case study. Additionally, the guidelines are going to be applied in real scenarios in software companies. The expected contributions in this project are (i) the negotiation guidelines aiming at reducing software estimate distortions, (ii) empirical evidence about whether negotiation theories are effective to aid software engineers to deal with estimate distortions, and (iii) a set of technological rules about the use of these guidelines.