Agile & Delivery playbook/Module 5 · Estimation & forecasting

Day 46 / 100 · Estimation & forecasting · Probabilistic forecasting

A range, not a promise.

A single date hides the risk. A forecast with a confidence level shows it, and lets the people asking choose how much risk to take.

1 October

50%

A coin flip. Half the time you'll be late.

USE FOR

Never promise this one.

24 October

85%

A good bet. Late about one time in seven.

USE FOR

Most commitments.

7 November

95%

Very safe. Late about one time in twenty.

USE FOR

Hard deadlines.

Give a range and a confidence. Let them choose the risk.