Relative Estimation

Definition of Relative Estimation:

Relative estimation is one of estimation approaches in Agile. Scrum Teams for example use relative estimation to determine how much effort is needed to complete the individual tasks of a project. Tasks or user stories are compared against similar, previously completed tasks.

Use of Relative Estimation:

Agile teams use relative estimation to find out how much time and effort will be needed to complete their workload during an iteration based on how long a similar task took to complete. Scrum teams often use a non-numerical scale to compare tasks during their planning session with the help of methods such as planning poker, using the Fibonacci sequence or tee-shirt sizing.

Benefits of Relative Estimation:

• Helps to find accurate estimates for releases and forecasting.
• Eliminates waste.
• Prevents confusion between estimates and commitments.
• Leads to increased customer satisfaction.