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Learn how to convert story points to hours and accurately predict feature delivery timelines in Agile. Discover best practices to improve estimation.

SmartGuess-When-can-you-deliver-feature-A.png

So, looking at the image, having a fixed scope question, when a certain number of story points are delivered, the answer is most likely in the following range:
- x gives the best-case scenario 
- y gives the worst-case scenario 

## Question 2: What can you deliver before the end of next quarter?
This is a fixed-time, variable-scope question. Looking at the image, having a fixed time question, we can see that, most likely, the team will
- Complete all stories below x
- Some of the stories between y and x
- None of the stories above z

SmartGuess-What-can-you-deliver-end-of-next-quarter.png


### Question 3: Can we get feature A delivered before the end of next quarter?
This is a fixed-time, fixed-scope question, meaning both the deadline (end of next quarter) and the work required (Feature A) are set.

Using the velocity-based forecast (illustrated in the image), you can determine if the team is on track:
- If “x” (the projected completion point) falls outside the green and red lines, it indicates that Feature A is unlikely to be completed on time.

This is a fixed-time, fixed-scope question. Looking at the image, if x is outside the green and red lines, the team will most likely be unable to deliver feature A in time.

SmartGuess-Can-you-deliver-feature-A-before-end-of-next-quarter.png

## Best Practice: What to Do If the Forecast Shows a Delay?
When facing a fixed deadline and scope, there are only three viable options:

1. **Extend the Timeline** – Push back the deadline to allow the team more time to complete the work.
2. **Reduce the Scope** – Remove or simplify features to fit within the available time.
3.  **Use a Combination of Both** – Adjust both time and scope to find a workable balance.



## Watch Henrik Kniberg explain these concepts
Henrik Kniberg covers these concepts in his excellent video "Agile Product Ownership in a nutshell." The discussion on estimates starts at 11:28. 

HenrikKniberg-video-for-more-info.jpg

Story Points to Hours: How to Convert Estimates Accurately in Agile

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Converting Story Points to Hours: A Practical Guide for Agile Teams

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