The Challenges of Software Development Estimation: Why Developers Struggle with Project Timelines
By
todsacerdoti
Pulled from the oven just right. Trustworthy, fact-dense, deeply satisfying.
Summary
The article explores the challenges and frustrations of software development estimation, particularly from a developer's perspective. It examines why estimates are difficult to provide accurately, the tension between developers and product owners/managers around estimation, and the inherent uncertainty in software projects. The content discusses how estimates often become commitments despite their speculative nature, and how this dynamic affects team dynamics and project planning in agile development environments.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledEstimates come in various disguises, but when you peek under the trench coat there is always the question: 'How long -- and using what amount of resources -- will be required to do X?'
When I wear the developer hat, it can be infuriating to attempt to give an answer. It's difficult to estimate (or the product owner could do it themselves) and a lot of the time it can be difficult to see why the estimate is needed.
We haven't even started working on it and it's bound to stir up some old issues.
Product Owner: Hey, how long do you believe Feature F will take? Developer: Idk.
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