Quick answer
10 estimation techniques compared: analogous, parametric, bottom-up, three-point, planning poker, expert judgment, t-shirt sizing, velocity, Delphi, and machine estimation — when each works.
The top-down
Analogous, parametric, expert judgment — fast, coarse, for early phases.
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The bottom-up
Work-package sums, planning poker, Delphi — accurate, expensive, for commitments.
The agile
Story points, t-shirt sizing, velocity forecasting — relative estimation for changing work.
The data-driven
Parametric rates, machine estimation — statistics where data exists.
Choosing
By accuracy needed and info available — early = top-down; commitment = bottom-up.
Bottom line
10 estimation techniques compared: analogous, parametric, bottom-up, three-point, planning poker, expert judgment, t-shirt sizing, velocity, Delphi, and machine estimation — when each works.
FAQ
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