Magic Estimation

Are you tired of long, drawn-out estimation meetings that seem to go on forever? Enter Magic Estimation, a fast technique perfect for estimating numerous items in a flash, particularly in Agile environments like Scrum.

Magic Estimation offers two main advantages: speed and subjectivity. By relying solely on non-verbal communication, teams can swiftly gauge the complexity of backlog items. Each team member brings their unique perspective, providing the Product Owner with invaluable insights into backlog complexity, facilitating smoother sprint planning.

Photo by Hugo Rocha on Unsplash

Here’s how it works:

  1. The Setup: The Scrum Master sets the stage, placing Planning Poker cards on a table alongside backlog items.
  2. First Step: Team members silently place items next to the Planning Poker card they believe represents the item’s complexity. Items may shift as different perspectives come into play, with the moderator noting discrepancies for discussion.
  3. Second Step: The moderator facilitates discussion on items that saw significant estimation discrepancies, ensuring everyone understands the rationale behind high and low estimates.

Magic Estimation streamlines the estimation process, allowing teams to focus on what matters most: delivering value to customers. So next time you’re faced with a mountain of backlog items, consider the magic of Magic Estimation to breeze through with agility and efficiency.

Links: https://medium.com/the-liberators/magic-estimation-5165df2be245