Certified Scrum Master Practice Test

Which estimation technique involves group discussion and consensus?

1. Top-down

2. Prior work

3. Planning poker

4. Expert judgment

The correct answer is: Planning poker

The chosen estimation technique, Planning Poker, is characterized by its use of group discussion and consensus to derive estimates for tasks or user stories. This method encourages team members to share their insights and opinions regarding the complexity and effort required for tasks. Through a structured process where each team member selects cards representing their estimate, the group then discusses differing estimates to understand the reasoning behind them. This collaborative approach fosters better communication, engages all team members, and leads to a more accurate and collective estimation, ultimately enhancing team alignment and ownership of the work to be done. In contrast, the other techniques do not emphasize group discussion and consensus in the same way. For instance, top-down estimation typically involves decisions made by higher management without much input from the team, resulting in estimates that may not reflect the actual work involved. Prior work relies on historical data from previous projects, which may not be applicable to new or different tasks. Expert judgment depends on the insights of a few knowledgeable individuals rather than the consensus of the team, potentially missing out on diverse viewpoints.