Quote Originally Posted by Kilt This! View Post
It doesn't actually take us 4 months, but we have learned that if you say 2 they want it in 1 and if you say 1 they want it tomorrow.
Scotty Factor

The 'Scotty factor' is used to inflate estimates of the time required to complete a project. In strict terms it is a factor of four: the number cited by Kirk in the film Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.[12]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montgomery_Scott

James T. Kirk: How much refit time before we can take her out again?
Montgomery Scott: Eight weeks, Sir, [Kirk opens his mouth] but ya don't have eight weeks, so I'll do it for ya in two.
James T. Kirk: Mr.Scott. Have you always multiplied your repair estimates by a factor of four?
Montgomery Scott: Certainly, Sir. How else can I keep my reputation as a miracle worker?
James T. Kirk: [over the intercom] Your reputation is secure, Scotty.

http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Star_Tr...arch_for_Spock