Avoid These Common Mistakes in Online Planning Poker Sessions

In the world of agile development, Planning Poker is a popular technique for estimating effort or relative size of development goals. However, when transitioning from in-person to online sessions, many teams stumble upon common pitfalls that can hinder the effectiveness of the estimation process. In this blog post, we'll explore these mistakes and provide solutions to ensure your online Planning Poker sessions are productive and efficient.

1. Lack of Preparation

Mistake: Jumping into a session without proper preparation can lead to confusion and wasted time. This includes unclear user stories, lack of necessary tools, or participants not knowing the agenda.

Solution: Before the meeting, make sure all user stories are well-defined and accessible to all team members. Distribute an agenda and ensure everyone has access to the online Planning Poker tool you'll be using, such as our free online Planning Poker game.

2. Ignoring Time Zones and Schedules

Mistake: Scheduling sessions without considering the different time zones of remote team members can result in low attendance and frustrated participants.

Solution: Use scheduling tools to find a time that works best for everyone. Alternatively, consider asynchronous estimation if coordinating becomes too challenging.

3. Technical Difficulties

Mistake: Poor internet connections, unfamiliarity with the tool, or software glitches can disrupt the flow of the session.

Solution: Encourage team members to test their equipment and the Planning Poker tool beforehand. Have a backup plan in case of technical issues, such as a conference call line or an alternative tool.

4. Dominance by Vocal Participants

Mistake: In online settings, it's easy for more assertive team members to dominate the conversation, which can skew estimations and discourage quieter participants.

Solution: Establish ground rules that promote equal participation. Use features in your Planning Poker tool that allow anonymous voting to ensure everyone's voice is heard without pressure.

5. Skipping the Discussion Phase

Mistake: Moving forward without discussing discrepancies in estimates eliminates the opportunity to uncover misunderstandings or hidden complexities.

Solution: After each round, take the time to discuss significant differences in estimates. This dialogue is crucial for aligning the team's understanding of user stories.

6. Underestimating the Importance of Engagement

Mistake: Participants multitasking or not fully engaging can lead to inaccurate estimations and a lack of team cohesion.

Solution: Keep sessions interactive and concise. Encourage webcams to be on if possible, and consider incorporating short breaks in longer sessions to maintain focus.

7. Not Utilizing All Features of the Planning Poker Tool

Mistake: Failing to use the full capabilities of your online Planning Poker tool can limit the session's effectiveness.

Solution: Explore all the features your chosen tool offers, such as custom card decks, timers, and export options. This can enhance the experience and efficiency of your estimation process.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes in your online Planning Poker sessions can significantly improve the accuracy of your estimations and the productivity of your team. By preparing adequately, encouraging equal participation, and effectively utilizing your online tools, you'll ensure that your virtual Planning Poker meetings are as effective as their in-person counterparts.

Ready to optimize your estimation process? Try our free online Planning Poker tool designed to make your virtual sessions seamless and productive.