TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Re: IS AN ESTIMATE A COMMITMENT? From:"Walker, Arlen P" <Arlen -dot- P -dot- Walker -at- JCI -dot- COM> Date:Fri, 12 Jun 1998 11:13:43 -0500
What do you think?
I think that an estimate which is revised often is meaningless. Take, for
example, an auto repair. When the mechanic gives an estimate and you OK
the work, how do you feel when he calls back three more times during the
day to revise that estimate upwards?
Estimates are free and loose when the task begins, but as the project goes
forward they become milestones for the management of the project and other
decisions are made based on them. If they retain their fluidity, it
jeopardizes the success of the entire project.
Look on this as incentive to improve your ability to estimate. ;{>}
Have fun,
Arlen
Chief Managing Director In Charge, Department of Redundancy Department
DNRC 224
Arlen -dot- P -dot- Walker -at- JCI -dot- Com
----------------------------------------------
In God we trust; all others must provide data.
----------------------------------------------
Opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
If JCI had an opinion on this, they'd hire someone else to deliver it.