Team Estimation Game

The Team Estimation Game is a collaborative game that allows for the rapid estimation of a large number of stories by sorting them by relative size. This process promotes collaboration and efficiency while reducing the discussion time needed for each estimation. It helps teams better understand flows and dependencies while improving their ability to work together.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction and preparation

   10 min

   The facilitator explains the objectives of the game: to estimate the backlog stories effectively and collaboratively. They present the basic rules and distribute the story cards to the participants. The participants familiarise themselves with the stories to be estimated.

   Tip — Use a concrete example to explain the concept of relative size of stories.

2. 2

   Setting up the estimation board

   5 min

   The facilitator prepares a board or surface where the stories will be placed according to their relative size. Participants are invited to gather around this space to facilitate collaboration.

   Tip — Ensure that everyone has a clear view of the board to avoid confusion.

3. 3

   Initial estimation

   15 min

   Each participant chooses a story and places it on the board based on their perception of its size. Other participants can then adjust the positions of the already placed stories, explaining their reasoning.

   Tip — Encourage participants to vocalise their thoughts to promote collective understanding.

4. 4

   Discussion and adjustments

   10 min

   Participants discuss the positions of the stories and make adjustments if necessary. The facilitator facilitates the discussion to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are made consensually.

   Tip — Ask open-ended questions to stimulate reflection and encourage participation.

5. 5

   Final validation

   5 min

   Once all stories have been estimated and placed, the facilitator reviews the board with the participants to validate the final estimates. Participants can still propose adjustments if inconsistencies are detected.

   Tip — Use a show of hands to quickly validate the final estimates.

Variants

• Use planning poker cards to introduce a secret voting dimension before the discussion.
• Limit the discussion time for each story to simulate a high-pressure work environment.
• Introduce 'surprise cards' with unplanned stories to test the team's flexibility.