Tracking Time Spent Across Multiple Epics

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Agile methodologies such as Scrum and Kanban are widely used in software development to improve project management processes, enhance flexibility, and enable teams to respond to changes more effectively. These methodologies align with the need for accurate insights and real-time information to further streamline the development process.

In today's article, we will analyze a popular use case that Jira users often encounter. Through this example, you will see how John, one of our users, solved his problem (using the Time in Status as an example).

                           

Problem:

John wanted to track the person-days spent on each epic and combine them into a single chart to analyze and communicate the team's performance across different projects. His main goals included:

1. Performance Analysis: By tracking the time spent on each epic, John can analyze the team's performance. This helps in understanding how efficiently the team is working and whether they are meeting their deadlines.
2. Resource Allocation: Knowing how much time is being spent on different epics allows John to allocate resources more effectively. If some projects are taking more time than expected, he can reassign tasks or bring in additional help to balance the workload.
3. Communication: A single, consolidated chart provides a clear and concise way to communicate the team's performance to stakeholders. This visual representation makes it easier for others to understand the progress and areas that may need attention.
4. Project Management: Combining the data into a single chart helps in managing multiple projects simultaneously. It provides an overview of all ongoing work and can highlight potential bottlenecks or delays in any epic.
5. Decision Making: With detailed insights into the person-days spent on each epic, John can make informed decisions about future project planning, budgeting, and timelines.
6. Process Improvement: Analyzing this data can reveal patterns and areas for improvement. John can identify inefficiencies and implement changes to enhance productivity and streamline workflows.

Solution:

John created reports and dashboards that show the time spent on each epic and visualizes this data in a consolidated chart for easy analysis and communication of team efforts.

Step 1: Creating Pivots 

Time in Status allows filtering the report similar to Jira Cloud Filters. John experimented with some JQL queries and managed to create a relevant filter: 

On the Pivot table, he ran the JQL query:

"Epic Link" = Key-epic#1 OR "Epic Link" = Key-epic#2

Also you can get this report as a chart:

Step 2: Creating Dashboard Based on Epics

John could use the Jira Dashboard to extend it with the Time in Status widgets constructed based on the Epic level. He could add separate widgets on a single board for a clear visual representation.

By following these steps, John was able to effectively track and communicate his team's performance across different projects.

Takeaway:

For teams looking to gain deeper insights into their time allocation and enhance their reporting capabilities, reporting add-ons offer a robust and flexible toolset that addresses common challenges and meets advanced reporting needs. One incredible tool at your disposal is Time in Status. 🚀 Start your 30-day trial now and elevate your team's performance to new heights:  

☁️ Time in Status - Jira Cloud

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