What is Planning Poker?
Planning poker is an agile estimation technique where team members vote on story points using cards. Learn how it works and why agile teams use it.
How Planning Poker Works
Planning poker (also called Scrum poker) is a consensus-based estimation technique. Each team member holds a set of cards with values like 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, and 21—typically the Fibonacci sequence. For each user story or backlog item, everyone selects a card representing their estimate. Cards are revealed at the same time to avoid anchoring.
Why Use Planning Poker?
Planning poker encourages discussion. When estimates differ, the team talks through assumptions and complexity. The goal isn't to agree on a number quickly—it's to align on understanding. That makes it one of the most effective agile estimation methods for Scrum and Kanban teams.
Planning Poker for Remote Teams
Distributed teams need tools that work in the browser. Our free online planning poker tool lets everyone join with a session code—no installation, no account. Votes sync in real time. Learn more about Scrum poker online.
Planning Poker with Jira
Many teams use planning poker during sprint planning, then add the agreed story points to Jira. You can run estimation sessions separately and transfer results, or use our tool alongside your Jira workflow. See our guide on agile estimation best practices.
Try It Free
Start a planning poker session in seconds. No signup, no credit card. Share the code with your team and estimate together.