Estimation Techniques

Estimation techniques in Scrum help teams predict effort and complexity for product backlog items. Popular methods include: 1. Planning Poker: Team members use numbered cards (Fibonacci sequence: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21...) to vote privately on item complexity. After revealing cards simultaneously, members discuss differences and re-vote until consensus emerges. 2. T-Shirt Sizing: Items receive relative size labels (XS, S, M, L, XL). This simple approach works well for initial high-level estimation. 3. Dot Voting: Team members place dots on items to indicate complexity, providing visual representation of collective judgment. 4. Affinity Estimation: Team physically arranges items in order of complexity, comparing items against each other. 5. Relative Sizing: Each item is compared to previously completed work with known effort, creating a reference point. 6. Story Points: Abstract units measuring complexity, uncertainty, and effort. Teams develop their own understanding of what "one point" represents. 7. Bucket System: Predefined complexity buckets (1, 2, 3, 5, 8...) where items are sorted. 8. Three-Point Estimation: Considers optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely scenarios to calculate weighted averages. Effective estimation in Scrum emphasizes: - Relative over absolute estimates - Team consensus through collaboration - Iterative refinement of estimates - Historical velocity as calibration - Acknowledging uncertainty The ScrumMaster facilitates these sessions but remains neutral about estimates. Estimations help with sprint planning, forecasting, and managing stakeholder expectations. Teams improve estimation accuracy over time through regular retrospectives and measuring actual versus estimated effort.

Estimation techniques in Scrum help teams predict effort and complexity for product backlog items. Popular methods include: 1. Planning Poker: Team members use numbered cards (Fibonacci sequence: 1,…

Concepts covered: T-Shirt Sizes, Three Point Estimating, Wideband Delphi, Analogous Estimating, Dot Voting, Affinity Estimating, Fibonacci Sequence, Relative Mass Valuation, Planning Poker, The Bucket System