For those that know the WSJF prioritization model the denominator represents effort, and uses size as a proxy. For the CDR Model we use Understanding as an inverse proxy for effort.

It is often easier to think of understanding rather than effort. If you have a low level of understanding, chances are the effort will be high. When you have a high level of understanding, the effort tends to be lower.

Consider both the problem and the resolution (code changes). Are these considerations simple, complex, or with dependencies?

Understanding options:

• Well understood
• Good understanding
• Fair understanding
• Little understanding
• No understanding