October 8, 2003
Should Just Very Soon
It should just work. Very soon.
In other words, trust me, even though I haven't had time to think about how long it is actually likely to take, "she'll be right, mate!"
As Charles points out, "just" is a vague term that is associated with situations when it is in one's interest to give an optimistic estimate.
In response, Laurent pointed to an excellent piece by Jerry Weinberg, which draws attention to the danger of using what he terms "lullaby words".
It's so tempting to give quick, vague estimates isn't it? I know I've fallen into that trap many times. Someone wants something of you, you're already busy and an easy way out is to get them off your back with a "should just be done very soon" estimate.
But unless you can deliver what your client expects when they expect it, you'll be in damage control mode later.
Posted to Peopleware, Software Development by Keith PittyA few years ago, I overheard two IT consultants talking about a report they were writing. One consultant points to a section of the draft and says, "I don't think this is right. Can you vague it up a little?"
Posted by: Alan Green at May 7, 2004 8:35 AM