Okay. I didn’t mean to say everyone wants a one size fits all solution - but please understand that many seem to think that it’s that simple.
1/
I’m not proposing that we need an alternative to blink estimation.
If we have a need to make the sort of decisions that blink estimation can try to inform - then there are plenty of techniquesxpeople are using. If they work well, then simply use them.
2/
What I seek is alternatives to the sort things we currently believe is important to decide.
To me, the important consideration, and the discussion that led to the #NoEstimates hashtag, is about why we limit our ourselves to decisions that require estimates.
3/
This is a starting point for exploring alternatives if the sort I am seeking. Not “what will we do instead of this type of estimating?”, but rather “is there another way to approach managing software development then making decisions based on estimates?”
4/
I don’t expect this conversation to be interesting to many people. It’s interesting to me. If someone doesn’t get any good out of it, I can live with that. I’ve learned a lot, and gotten a lotta good from this sort of open conversation.
5/5
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@johncutlefish I’ve managed software development with no estimates. I don’t see how “why estimates” makes sense in that context. #NoEstimates clearly states that I’ve worked without estimates. Like saying “Gluten free” vs “Why gluten?”.
@johncutlefish Or saying “Coke Zero” vs “Why Coke without sugar”. Coke Zero means this drink has #NoSugar. In this context it would be a bit nonsensical to say to say “this drink has Why sugar”. It can have no sugar, or less sugar, or the normal amount, or even extra sugar.
@johncutlefish Once the #NoEstimates hashtag started growing in usage I have used it as marker for a bigger conversation: “Let’s talk about why we do the things we do, with particular attention on the things we do without questioning or verification as to their benefit.”
“Ranged estimates” are an integral part of many processes that use estimates, and have been in use for many decades. However, IMO they’re essentially the same thing as an estimate. 1/
An estimate is typically given as an approximation, as in “it will take about 3 months give or take 2 weeks” 2/