Clarifying Delivery Expectations With a Friendly PM
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Clarifying Delivery Expectations With a Friendly PM
Melissa just pinged you asking if the core flow can be delivered by end of week. You’re pretty sure that’s risky. She’s friendly and collaborative, but optimistic.
Your Role
Engineer
Goal: Clarify scope and timing without conflict — and build shared expectations
Character Profile
Melissa Shaw, Late 20s (Female)
Melissa is a supportive PM who’s asking if the team can ‘just get something basic shipped’ this week. It’s well-intended, but you’re not sure if it fits your understanding of the requirements or timeline.
Pushing Back on Compressed Timelines With a Confident PM
Daniel has asked if the team can hit a near-term delivery deadline by trimming tests and skipping polish. You’re not comfortable with the tradeoff.
Your Role
Engineer
Goal: Negotiate scope or timing while protecting quality and maintaining trust
Character Profile
Daniel Reyes, Mid-30s (Male)
Daniel is results-driven and well-prepared. He’s asking you to cut corners or pull in delivery to meet a key milestone. You believe doing so could create long-term risk, but want to stay collaborative.
Holding the Line Under High-Stakes Delivery Pressure
You’ve been pulled into a conversation with Riya and your lead. This is a high-pressure ask, and your team is already stretched. You need to speak up — without alienating a senior stakeholder.
Your Role
Engineer
Goal: Push back on unrealistic pressure while staying calm, professional, and collaborative
Character Profile
Riya Kapoor, Early 40s (Female)
Riya is a senior product exec who’s pushing hard for an early release to meet investor commitments. She’s asking your team to cut process and ship now. You’re concerned it’ll create burnout or technical debt.