estimation

Decompose project work into atomic tasks and calculate PERT-based risk-adjusted estimates.

14|7|Updated Dec 4, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/aj-geddes/unicorn-team --skill estimation-aj-geddes
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: estimation
Source: https://github.com/aj-geddes/unicorn-team/tree/main/skills/estimation
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/aj-geddes/unicorn-team --skill estimation-aj-geddes

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Dealing with project work is hard without a disciplined estimation process. This skill guides users through risk-aware task estimation using exhaustive decomposition, three-point estimates, and the PERT formula to produce a defensible timeline.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Decompose work into atomic tasks (<8 hours each) to enable accurate estimation and risk awareness.
  • Apply optimistic, realistic, and pessimistic estimates to compute a PERT-based expected duration and add risk buffers.
  • Generate a structured output including unknowns, risks, and a ready-to-share communication template for stakeholders.

Quick Start

Describe your task and subtasks to receive a risk-adjusted estimate based on PERT with unknowns and a communication-ready summary.

Frequently Asked Questions about estimation

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I calculate project estimates using PERT and risk buffers?

Project estimates using PERT apply optimistic, realistic, and pessimistic values to compute expected durations, identify unknowns, and add risk buffers for a defensible timeline.

What is risk-aware task decomposition for project planning?

Risk-aware task decomposition breaks project work into atomic subtasks under eight hours each, enabling accurate three-point estimates and clear identification of schedule risks and unknowns.

How do I create a communication-ready project timeline for stakeholders?

Create a communication-ready timeline by applying PERT calculations and risk adjustments to decomposed tasks, generating an output-ready template summarizing unknowns and risks for stakeholders.

Can I use three-point estimates for product planning and operations tasks?

Yes, three-point estimates work for product planning and operations tasks by applying decomposition and PERT calculations to generate risk-adjusted timelines across any project work requiring breakdowns.

What is the best way to estimate software development tasks with unknowns?

The best way to estimate software development tasks with unknowns is exhaustive decomposition into atomic subtasks, followed by PERT-based calculations and explicit risk adjustments for schedule defensibility.