The O’Dwyer and Malone estimate provides an enormous range (which is understandable as a result of it was the first attempt at such evaluation), however inexplicably chooses a "midpoint" quantity that's nowhere near the midpoint between its excessive and low estimates (and is biased in the direction of the highest finish). For my part, these attributes make Bevand’s estimates extra reliable. It is common follow when data aren’t obtainable to make assumptions for key parameters, primarily based on intuition, common information, or bodily rules. Where key parameters are unknown, it’s better to gather data instead of constructing assumptions, and if data aren’t available, it’s higher not to publish estimates in any respect, or to couch the ends in an appropriately cautious means, recognizing the constraints of assumptions on this quick-moving space.