Answer

1. How were many different estimating techniques discussed in the case?

The discussion has mentioned there different estimation techniques, which are:

Analogy: this technique has been mentioned in the discussion as a top to down estimate used in determining the expected project duration. With reference to the previously estimated project, an analogy estimate can be used in the estimation of new projects (Tepanov, 2017).

Three-point: is a project estimate technique that uses project evolution and review techniques. It is easier to estimate cost, project duration, and other activities related to the project using the three-point technique.

Triangular distribution: this technique is applicable, where historical data on previous projects is limited. The technique is the most suitable in estimating the duration for completing a project (Antweiler, 2019).

2. If each estimate is different, how does a project manager decide that one estimate is better than another?

These kinds of scenarios may warrant the project manager to evaluate all the available estimates for each project. Then, the manager should assess all the requirements for the project in terms of cost, time, and identify the most suitable estimating technique for the project. The project manager should also consider revisiting previously done projects and using their data as reference points for the new projects (Antweiler, 2019). Lastly, the project manager needs to establish a good relationship between them, the team members, and the product owners to identify the project's best estimate technique.

3. If you were the project manager, which estimate would you use?

I would choose the analogy estimating technique because it would be much easier to evaluate and probably compare several types of project parameters with the actual data obtained from the previous project in estimating the cost and time for the current new project (Usmani, 2020).

References

Antweiler, W. (2019, June 5). Triangular Distribution Estimation. Retrieved from https://wernerantweiler.ca/blog.php?item=2019-06-05

Tepanov, J. (2017, July 27). Project Estimation Techniques for Greater Management. Retrieved from https://blog.ganttpro.com/en/project-estimation-techniques-for-greater-management/

Usmani, F. (2020, July). 4 Tools to Estimate Costs in the Project Management | PM Study Circle. Retrieved from https://pmstudycircle.com/2012/06/4-tools-to-estimate-costs-in-the-project-management/