Chapter 5. Planning predictability
This chapter covers
- The importance of predictability for short-term planning
- Using metrics to support predictable planning
- Common errors in the use of estimation for short-term planning
- Effects of high WIP levels on planning predictability
In this chapter, you’ll see how metrics can support planning predictability. Predictable planning is critically important in software development and support regardless of the approach, process model, or delivery mode. When estimates and forecasts are informed by empirical data, they provide a more reliable indication of near-term future delivery performance than when they’re based on individuals’ subjective assessment.
In the early days of lightweight processes, people sometimes referred to traditional methods as plan-based, as distinct from adaptive. I think this is a misnomer, because all work is based on a plan, including adaptive development. The differences between traditional and adaptive methods have to do with when the planning is done and to what level of detail the plan must be elaborated before development work can begin.