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A project, by definition, creates something new, something that wasn’t there before.
So it is very natural – and sometimes mandatory – that you are able to estimate how long it is going to take to complete, how long it’s going to cost, and other estimates.
The problem is, as you may imagine, that it is impossible to estimate those numbers with precision. After all, this has never been done before!
The topic of estimates in project management is a hot one, and there are many different approaches to it.
To discuss her take on project estimates, I bring back to the PM for the Masses podcast my friend Johanna Rothman, to talk about estimates and her new book, Predicting the Unpredictable: Pragmatic Approaches to Estimating Cost and Schedules.
This is a podcast episode. To listen to it, press the “play” button above this post or subscribe to the show in iTunes or Stitcher Radio.
Project Estimates with Johanna Rothman
Johanna Rothman
Johanna Rothman, known as the “Pragmatic Manager,” helps organizational leaders see problems and risks in their product development. She helps them recognize potential risks, seize opportunities, and remove impediments.
Johanna was the Agile 2009 conference chair. She is the current agileconnection.com technical editor. Johanna is the author of these books:
- Manage Your Job Search
- Hiring Geeks That Fit
- Manage Your Project Portfolio: Increase Your Capacity and Finish More Projects
- Manage It! Your Guide to Modern, Pragmatic Project Management
- Behind Closed Doors: Secrets of Great Management
- Hiring the Best Knowledge Workers, Techies & Nerds: The Secrets and Science of Hiring Technical People
- Predicting the Unpredictable: Pragmatic Approaches to Estimating Cost and Schedules
She is writing a book about agile and lean program management. She writes columns for Stickyminds.com and projectmanagment.com, and writes two blogs on her web site, jrothman.com, as well as a blog on createadaptablelife.com.
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Today’s episode is sponsored by CareerAcademy and their fantastic offer to our PM for the Masses community. This offer is called the Certified Learner Membership through CareerAcademy.
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