Chapter 23

Tip #110 

Understand that executives are assertive by nature and by job description, and plan your estimation discussions accordingly.

Tip #111 

Be aware of external influences on the target. Communicate that you understand the business requirements and their importance.

Tip #112 

You can negotiate the commitment, but don't negotiate the estimate.

Tip #113 

Educate nontechnical stakeholders about effective software estimation practices.

Tip #114 

Treat estimation discussions as problem solving, not negotiation. Recognize that all project stakeholders are on the same side of the table. Everyone wins, or everyone loses.

Tip #115 

Attack the problem, not the people.

Tip #116 

Generate as many planning options as you can to support your organization's goals.

Tip #117 

As you foster an atmosphere of collaborative problem solving, don't make any commitments based on off-the-cuff estimates.

Tip #118 

Resolve discussion deadlocks by returning to the question of, "What will be best for our organization?"