Wednesday, September 19, 2012

How to estimate a programming task if you have no experience in it

The best answer you can give is to ask for time to knock up a quick prototype to allow you to give a more accurate estimate. Without some experience with a tool or a problem, any estimate you give is essentially meaningless.
As an aside, there is very rarely a problem with giving too long an estimate. Unanticipated problems occur, priorities change, and requirements are "updated". Even if you don't use all the time you asked for, you will have more testing time, or can release "early".
I've always been far too optimistic in my estimates, and it can put a lot of stress into your life, especially when you are a young programmer without the experience and self-confidence to tell bosses uncomfortable truths.

http://stackoverflow.com/questions/425044/how-to-estimate-a-programming-task-if-you-have-no-experience-in-it?lq=1

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