Planning poker: The agile way to do estimation for scrum teams

Planning poker, also known as scrum poker, is a collaborative estimation technique used in agile software development to assess the complexity and effort required for tasks in a product backlog. It was introduced by James Grenning in 2002 as a response to the limitations of traditional estimation methods, gaining popularity through Mike Cohn's book "Agile Estimating and Planning." The process involves team members using a deck of cards displaying numbers based on the Fibonacci sequence to represent the scale of work, ranging from zero to infinity. Each member simultaneously reveals their card to avoid influence from dominant voices, promoting equal participation and knowledge sharing. This approach helps address common challenges in estimation, such as lack of shared knowledge and sway from certain team members, by encouraging open discussion and consensus on the task's complexity. While planning poker is not a precise forecasting tool, it aids teams in developing a shared understanding of their capacity and improving their estimation skills over time. Although primarily used in software development, its principles can be applied to various projects requiring effort estimation. However, it is important to note that the method's inherent vagueness can be frustrating for stakeholders who prefer time-based assessments, and the consensus reached may still be inaccurate if the team lacks crucial information.