Improving Estimates

Don’t Underestimate[¹]

Even if you’ve worked on the same task in the past, nuances are always involved in each study.

Separating large tasks into smaller ones improves the accuracy of estimates. Decompose estimates into tasks requiring no more than two days of effort.

Estimate in ranges: worst case, most likely case, best case for a task. Document and communicate the assumptions embedded in your assessment.

The best estimation techniques for small projects tend to be “bottom-up” based on estimates created by people who will do the work.

Next time someone asks for an estimate, grab a Post-it and take note of your answer.

When you are ready to begin the task, start a clock and see how long it takes to complete.

Once the task is done, note how many hours it took to finish. Repeat the same thing for the next task. Every task is a new problem, don’t underestimate it.

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[¹]: Zeno Rocha(2021): 14 Habits of Highly Productive Developers (https://www.amazon.com/14-Habits-Highly-Productive-Developers/dp/1735266531