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Discussion on: Hard things in Computer Science

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polterguy profile image
Thomas Hansen

Multiply your own estimates by Pi (3.14). It ensures you always overdeliver and underpromise. People are only angry if you promise something you cannot keep. If you multiple your own estimates by Pi, you're 95% likely of being able to deliver below expectations ... ;)

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aminmansuri profile image
hidden_dude • Edited

I'd also add that it's much easier to estimate small things than big things.

If your estimate is longer than 5 days, then break it up into parts until all your estimates are under 5 days.

Yet another tip: design your UI first, then make your estimate. Estimates become a LOT more certain once you've defined the UI (look up cone of uncertainty for a graphical explanation).

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jcolag profile image
John Colagioia (he/him)

This isn't entirely true for many projects. Developer management doesn't get angry if you over-estimate your work, sure, especially in a dysfunctional company where the development team doesn't care about the business side. Everybody who interacts with the outside world, though, and might need things done to beat competition or have releases available for key events get extremely angry when told to put off their big announcements, and then find out that their original deadline would have worked. Or worse, it means that projects get cancelled, because yours will take too long to help the overall strategy.