I use a burndown chart to show the work that remains on a time line. First, I plot the total remaining effort at the start of a sprint or project. Next, I update the chart every day. Then, I track the downward curve of remaining effort. Finally, I compare the actual curve with an ideal line. Therefore, I see if the team will finish on time.
The burndown chart shows remaining effort per day. For example, I record story points or hours for each backlog item. In addition, I sum the efforts for the sprint backlog. Moreover, I plot the sum on the vertical axis. Meanwhile, I plot time on the horizontal axis. As a result, the chart gives a clear visual of progress.
I use the burndown chart with the task board and sprint backlog. First, I break user stories into tasks. Then, I move tasks across the board. Next, I update the burndown chart to reflect task completion. Thus, it links backlog items to daily work. Consequently, I can spot gaps early.
I record the burndown chart daily. Therefore, I keep data fresh. Also, I use the chart to support the daily scrum. For example, I bring the chart to the stand-up and discuss deviations. If the curve stays above the ideal line, I investigate. If the curve falls below, I celebrate steady progress. However, I avoid blaming individuals. Instead, I focus on solving impediments.
I use the burndown chart for short-term forecasting. First, I read the slope of the curve. Then, I estimate whether we will complete planned user stories by sprint end. Moreover, I notice scope changes quickly. For instance, when we add tasks, the remaining effort jumps. Therefore, I adjust the plan or re-prioritize the backlog. In addition, I use the chart to inform the product owner about realistic delivery.
I keep the burndown chart simple. First, I use one line for remaining effort. Then, I add an ideal line for reference. However, I do not add too many metrics. Otherwise, the chart becomes hard to read. Instead, I create separate charts if I need to show additional data. For example, I can chart scope changes or cumulative flow in another view.
I use electronic tools when teams work remotely. First, the software stores backlogs and task boards. Then, the tools update the burndown chart automatically. As a result, distributed team members can access the chart any time. Furthermore, the tools help with traceability. For example, I link user stories to tasks and test cases. Consequently, I can trace the remaining work back to requirements.
I keep the burndown chart lightweight and iterative. Since agile favors “just enough” documentation, I avoid heavy reports. Instead, I rely on the burndown chart plus daily communication. Therefore, I keep reporting efficient. Meanwhile, the sprint retrospective and impediment backlog help me improve how I use the chart. In addition, I use the chart to refine estimates in future sprints.
In short, I use a burndown chart to visualize daily progress. First, I measure remaining effort. Next, I update daily. Then, I use the chart to forecast, to detect scope changes, and to guide team conversations. Finally, I keep the chart simple and shared so everyone stays aligned.