Session 3.4 - Estimating & Scheduling
Chapter 5: The Development Plan | Duration: 1 hr
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Estimate tasks with TSPi guidance on size and effort
- Include unplanned work and contingencies appropriately
- Schedule tasks with buffers and realistic sequencing
- Connect estimates to weekly tracking
Introduction
Good schedules start with good estimates. Chapter 5 emphasizes small tasks, realistic allowances for unplanned work, and buffers that reflect risk—not wishful thinking.
Estimating Tasks
Guidelines
- Break work into ~10-hour tasks (or smaller) before estimating.
- Estimate size first (LOC, stories, functions), then effort/time.
- Use personal/PSP historical data when available; otherwise, use team baselines after cycle 1.
- Document assumptions for each estimate.
Allowing for Unplanned Work
Chapter 5 advises reserving a small amount of time each week for unplanned work, especially before you have cycle data. This prevents minor surprises from derailing the schedule.
Scheduling & Buffers
| Scheduling Practice | Description | Why it Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence by dependencies | Order tasks by what they depend on; avoid parallelizing interdependent work. | Reduces rework and idle time. |
| Buffer risky items | Add time around tasks with high uncertainty or new tech. | Absorbs slips without cascading delays. |
| Weekly checkpoints | Sync with WEEK reports; replan quickly when variance appears. | Keeps plan current and credible. |
Summary
- Estimate small tasks with documented assumptions; use size first, then time.
- Reserve weekly allowance for unplanned work until data improves.
- Sequence tasks by dependency, buffer risky items, and checkpoint weekly.
- Schedule realism depends on honest estimates and visible replanning.