Cost Estimating

Cost estimation is the process of estimating all of the costs associated with completing a project within scope and according to its timeline.

Initial, high-level estimates are often used in the earliest stages of project planning and can determine whether or not a project is ultimately pursued. Once a project is approved and an organization chooses to move forward with it, more detailed and granular cost estimates become necessary in order to appropriately allocate various resources.

A thorough cost estimate should include both the direct and indirect costs associated with bringing a project through to completion. Depending on the specifics of the venture, this will likely include various overhead costs (utilities, labor, etc.), labor costs (including both time and wages paid), materials and equipment costs, vendor fees (if the project requires third-party workers, freelancers, or other contractors), and more