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268 points behnamoh | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.23s | source
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dgb23 ◴[] No.28669285[source]
People tend to want to hear or give the shortest estimate that seemingly sounds feasible.

I don't do that anymore. I try to push estimates as high as possible and then collaboratively cut down on requirements/promises/features to match an expected (time) budget.

This often leads to more pragmatic work items and sensible prioritization from the start. And it is an opportunity for general communication and understanding the value of things.

replies(3): >>28669314 #>>28669412 #>>28671220 #
1. jcutrell ◴[] No.28669314[source]
My theory is that this has to do with our difficulty dealing with delayed gratification.

Tell people a short number now = immediate praise, long term pain.

Tell people a higher estimate, immediate negative; finish in time = delayed gratification.