So Your Manager Asked You for an Estimate! - George Dinwiddie - AgileLnL
AI Summary
Summary of Video: Estimation in Agile Projects
Speaker: George Dy
Introduction: Discusses the challenges and common feelings (excited, nervous, unsure) when asked for an estimate by management.
Upcoming Topics:
- Agile animated cartoon related to sustainable development practices.
- Discussion on becoming an expert while on the job.
- Focus on Lean principles in action.
George’s Background:
- 40 years in hardware, software development, and coaching.
- Authored a book on estimation that was released around the onset of COVID.
Estimation Discussion:
- Common feelings about estimation include uncertainty and worry about how estimates will be used.
- Importance of avoiding rigid plans based on detailed story cards; smaller stories work well for short-term but not long-term projects.
- Key questions to consider when estimating include the desired delivery date and the nature of the estimate (pessimistic, nominal, or optimistic).
Common Problems with Estimation:
- Underestimating due to traditional habits; organizations often stick to old practices without reassessment.
- When estimates go wrong, it can lead to blame, frustration, and conflict within teams.
Best Practices:
- Understand the context and objectives behind the estimates to align with organizational goals.
- Encourage regular communication to reassess estimates and expectations as projects evolve.
- Emphasize that estimates are inherently wrong and should be treated as rough guidelines, not precise commitments.
Conclusion: Estimation is a collaborative process that requires understanding assumptions and contexts, fostering open communication, and planning for contingencies.