Guide: Agile Estimation Scale

What is the Agile Estimation Scale: The Agile Estimation Scale is a method used in Agile Project Management to provide a rough estimate of the effort required to implement a specific piece of work. This scale can range from simple numerical figures (like 1,2,3,4,5) or natural sequences (like Fibonacci sequence: 1,2,3,5,8,13), to more complex scale types like t-shirt sizing (S, M, L, XL).

Why it is important: Agile Estimation Scale facilitates the process of prioritisation and assignment of tasks, enhancing the effectiveness of team collaborations and improving sprint planning. It allows the agile teams to gain a high-level understanding of the complexity and size of the tasks, and promotes transparency and collective decision-making.

How it works: During the planning meets, the team members consider each task and independently choose a point from the scale. Discussion ensues until a consensus is reached. This method aims to remove bias and create a balanced evaluation.

Exam Tips - Answering Questions on Agile Estimation Scale: The Agile Estimation Scale is a common topic in agile and project management exams. Below are tips to answer these questions in an exam: i) Understand the concept and purpose of Agile Estimation Scale and its role in agile project management; ii) remember that the scale can be numerical, relative (size-based), or purely subjective; iii) Highlight benefits such as improved transparency, team collaboration, and bias reduction; iv) Use real-world examples to explain how Agile Estimation Scale is used during planning and decision-making processes; v) Always relate your explanation back to the Agile principles of collaboration, adaptability, and continuous improvement.