SCRUMPARTY
ScrumParty Team
10/2023

What Is Planning Poker?

This article will explain what Planning Poker is, how it works, and how scrumparty.org makes it easier.

Generic scrum desk with post-its

In the world of Agile software development, effective estimation is key to successful project management. One popular technique that facilitates this process is Planning Poker. This article will explain what Planning Poker is, how it works, and how scrumparty.org makes it easier than ever for Agile teams to conduct efficient estimations.

What Is Planning Poker?

Planning Poker, also known as Scrum Poker, is a collaborative and fun technique used by Agile teams to estimate the complexity or effort required for tasks. It encourages team members to share their perspectives and reach a consensus on estimates. The process involves a deck of cards with numbers representing estimation points, typically ranging from 0 to infinity.

How to Conduct Planning Poker:

  1. Preparation: The Product Owner or Scrum Master presents a user story or task to the team for estimation.

  2. Card Distribution: Each team member selects a card from the Planning Poker deck that corresponds to their estimate of the task’s complexity Cards are kept face down to maintain independence.

  3. Reveal: Once everyone has chosen a card, all team members simultaneously reveal their estimates.

  4. Discussion: If there are significant differences in estimates, team members discuss the reasons behind their choices.

  5. Re-estimation: Repeat the process until a consensus is reached or until it’s clear that further discussion won’t lead to alignment.

  6. Record: The final estimate is recorded for future reference.

Why scrumparty.org?

Scrumparty.org provides a convenient online platform for Agile teams to conduct Planning Poker sessions. One notable feature is the ability to save estimation references, making it easy to revisit past estimations and track progress. The platform supports both English and Spanish, catering to bilingual teams and making collaboration seamless.

In summary, Planning Poker is a valuable tool in Agile development, promoting collaboration and accuracy in task estimations. Scrumparty.org enhances this process with its user-friendly online platform, ensuring that Agile teams can effectively plan and manage their projects.