[mr3martinis]

There are two ways to approach the problem of inaccurate estimation:

1. set a date and trim scope to hit it 2. set a scope with an understanding that the ETA is truly estimated and subject to change

Either way, stakeholders and the team have to fully understand and buy in on the approach.

When the approach isn't clear or when you promise both scope and delivery date, it's a highway to the danger zone.

[randomsearch]

Interesting, but is the “date flexible” approach really workable? How does the rest of the business work if the deadline is May, then August, then the following year? At least with the fixed date method you know that a bunch of stuff will be shipped at that date, and you can always have an adjustable plan for eg marketing.