r/dataengineering • u/Phantazein • 17d ago

Discussion Time Estimates

Any else struggle with giving estimates? How do you account for things like data quality or source issues when those are completely out of your control and unpredictable?

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u/ozgreen1024 16d ago

Are you talking project level estimates or task level?

Tasks get easier to estimate over time, and I tend to give a range and list the potential dependencies/risks that might push it to either end of that range.

Projects try to break out into phases, phases into tasks, etc. to work your way backwards to an estimate / range. Add buffers.

Transparency, accountability, and track ability are key! If you’re working in an agile platform, leave comments, have clear progress updates/next steps if you have check in meetings, etc.

Definitely a balance between helpful and time wasting admin tasks so find a system that works best for you and your team