Overview

This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Master Agile estimation techniques with a hands-on approach, focusing on Scrum and Kanban. From the basics of story points and velocity to advanced methods like planning poker and T-shirt sizing, this course covers estimation skills for Agile project planning. You’ll explore estimation best practices, learn to calculate team velocity, and understand how to improve your estimation process through real-world exercises. As you progress, you’ll experiment with different techniques, such as relative estimation, reference stories, and the three-point method, and discover when to re-estimate. Troubleshoot common issues like multi-tasking and team instability to improve accuracy. Perfect for Agile practitioners, Scrum Masters, and product owners, this course will help you refine your estimation skills and apply the most effective techniques for your team’s needs. By the end, you'll be able to estimate accurately and troubleshoot estimation challenges with confidence.

Syllabus

Introduction

In this module, we will introduce you to the world of Agile estimation, covering its significance in Scrum and Kanban methodologies. You'll learn about the core concepts of estimation, explore its role in Agile processes, and engage in an exercise to practice basic estimation techniques. By the end of this section, you'll have a strong foundation for estimating tasks and planning sprints effectively.

Estimation Fundamentals

In this module, we will explore the essential fundamentals of Agile estimation. You will learn how to create accurate and reliable estimates, utilize techniques like story points, ideal days, and velocity calculation to forecast team capacity. Additionally, you’ll practice relative estimation and understand the importance of when to re-estimate. This section will help you refine your estimation skills for better planning and delivery.

Estimation Techniques

In this module, we will dive into specific estimation techniques used in Agile environments. You’ll explore team-based methods like planning poker, compare complexity using T-shirt sizing, and consider uncertainty with the three-point method. This section is packed with hands-on exercises to help you apply each technique effectively and choose the right one based on your project’s needs.

Estimation Troubleshooting

In this module, we will address the common pitfalls and challenges in Agile estimation. You will learn why teams struggle with accurate estimation and how to address issues like multi-tasking, uncertainty, and team instability. We’ll also focus on the value of well-written user stories in creating accurate estimates. This section will provide you with the tools to troubleshoot and refine your estimation approach for optimal results.

Conclusion

In this module, we will review the major takeaways from the course, summarizing the techniques, strategies, and best practices for Agile estimation. You'll leave with the confidence to apply your newfound skills in Scrum and Kanban environments, and be ready to adapt and refine your estimation processes for continuous improvement in your team’s planning and delivery.