How Good Are Your Estimation Practices :: Discover Your Need Level

| Estimation and Project Planning

estimation needs assessment

YES	NO	In my organization…
		1. … we recognize the difference between accurate estimates and precise estimates.
		2. … a good estimate will raise more questions than it provides answers to.
		3. … when we are asked to provide an estimate, we determine whether we’re supposed to be estimating or figuring out how to hit a target.
		4. … we use historical data to help avoid politically charged estimation discussion arising from assumptions like “our people are above/below average”.
		5. …when we present an estimate, the merits of the process used to create the estimate and the resulting estimate are frequently debated.
		6. …we are frequently pressured to provide precise estimates very early in the projects. Frequently these estimates are given off-the-cuff.
		7. … we create both "best case" and "worst case" estimates to encourage thinking about the full range of possible project outcomes.
		8. …we always capture the results of our projects and use those results as the basis for our future estimates.
		9. …we recognize that a good estimation process will highlight the risks resulting project will face.
		10.……we use multiple techniques and look for convergence or spread amongst the estimates.
		11. ... we have the developers who will do the actual work estimate the work tasks they are going to undertake.
		12. …we never shorten a schedule estimate without either increasing the estimate of the effort required or remove some of the work to be done from the estimate.
		TOTAL — Number answered with ‘No’:

Rank your total on the following scale:

Immediate Need: 10-12 points

SPC can conduct an assessment of your estimation issues. A solution involving training and mentoring can be customized and delivered in your organization within weeks of contacting us. You won’t wait long for results, either. You’ll notice changes the next day. Contact an SPC representative to get started right away.

Urgent Need: 6-9 points

Estimation training and mentoring can give everyone a shared understanding of the agreed approach to estimation and turn back the trend you’re experiencing. Tap into our expert knowledge and relevant insights on by giving everyone a common approach to improving communication, managing expectations, and creating a more productive project environment. Contact an SPC representative to explore your best options.

Evaluation Recommended: 4-5 points

Estimation consulting from SPC helps any organization step back and evaluate areas for improvement. Further evaluation could help make connections between better requirements practices and tools and your businesses bottom-line. Contact an SPC representative to explore how you can evaluate your position.

Modest to None: 3 or fewer points

Practical Project Estimation, originally developed by renowned expert Steve McConnell could be a great addition to your already successful organization. The course includes many of the topics addressed in his latest book Software Estimation: Demystifying the Black Art. Consider your “No” answers and reflect on the cost and impact they have on your organization. Contact an SPC representative, we will help you decide if further action is necessary.

get started with Spc's Estimation whitepapers

Critical knowledge you and your team can use today.

Software Project Estimation explains the process, gives key insights on situations such as maintenance projects, small projects and new-domain projects.
The 'New' Relevance of Estimation: Making The Connection With The Well-Run Business explains why good estimation is key for winning organizations

put Spc's Estimation experience to work for you

If you need to learn about estimation practices and techniques consider our workshop Practical Estimation: Getting The Most Value From Your Estimation Practices. You'll get knowledge and insight on the right practices to use at the right time in the software lifecycle, it's full of practical ideas that you can use right away. Get the detailed course description for more details.

is Spc right for you

Our goal is to ensure our clients have the right process, technology and skills to deliver lasting change to their development organization and business. Contact an SPC representative to get SPC working for you. They understand our services from your perspective. You will get an honest picture without the hype. There’s no risk, no obligation, and plenty of ways to see if SPC is right for you. Discover why SPC is right for you.

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