We all get to make and update our own estimates. We know the work best, so no one else should be guessing for us.
“Estimates” are educated guesses - useful, but not concrete “promises”.
They’re open to change as we learn new things. And when we do, we can change the estimate and let the team know.
Good estimating means:
- We give our best guess, honestly.
- We use ranges when unsure (e.g., 3–7 days).
- We update estimates as facts change.
- We treat estimates as planning tools, not deadlines to blame people for.
Discussions for your team
- Who owns each estimate and how do we record updates?
- When should an estimate be revised and who must be notified?
- In what situations do we use ranges versus single numbers? Which work better?
- How do we keep estimates from becoming blame?