Buffer Builder

What it does

• A buffer without a stated purpose gets consumed in week one.
• The builder assigns buffers to review, client lag and rework.
• Each buffer has an owner and a trigger for using it.

How to use it

1. Client lag is the most common hidden delay; give it a buffer and a date.
2. Review buffer protects quality, not scope.
3. Rework buffer is funded by the revision cap, not by goodwill.
4. If a buffer is unused at the end, it is evidence for a better estimate.

Safety notes

• A percentage buffer added silently is a lie about the finish date.
• Do not use the review buffer to absorb extra scope.