Course description
Project Estimating - In House
A project plan is only as good as the estimates it is based on. Because of the many difficulties in developing accurate estimates, however, many project managers and team members dread being asked, “How much will this cost?” or “How long will this take?”. But these questions must be answered–and consequently, project professionals can only benefit from improvements to their estimating skills and processes.
This workshop provides participants with both an estimating process model and a variety of estimating techniques– useful in all estimating modes; top-down, bottom-up, and constraint mode. Participants learn and practice techniques such as analogous estimating, the Delphi technique, three-point estimating (PERT), and parametric estimating. Students come away with a clear understanding of the many variables affecting effort, duration, and cost estimates.
This workshop utilizes brief lectures, guided discussion, individual and team skills practice in situational case studies and review exercises. At the end of each module, there is a review of key points and time set-aside for participants to write down ideas and techniques they intend to implement back on the job. Participants are encouraged to share experiences, ask questions, and participate in class discussions.
Upcoming start dates
Who should attend?
Current and aspiring project managers, sub-team leaders, and team members. Project clients, sponsors, and other stakeholders may also benefit.
Prerequisite
None, although a class in basic project management is recommended.
Training content
Module 1 – The Politics of Estimating
- Obstacles to estimating
- Fundamental concepts
Module 2 – Estimating and Communication
- Estimating lexicon
- The Estimating Request
- The Estimate Unit
- Purpose of the Estimate
- Estimating within Constraints
- Scope of Work Clarification Checklist
Module 3 – The Process and Techniques of Estimating
- Nuts and Bolts of Estimating
- Three Estimating Modes
- Estimating Process
- Estimating Variables
- Estimating Assumptions Checklist
- Seven Estimating Techniques
Module 4 – Organizational Support for Estimating
- Five Building Blocks to Improved Estimating
- Now for the Hard Part: Obstacles
Certification / Credits
Credits: 7 PDUs
Learning Objectives
Participants will gain practical skills to:
- Apply a generic estimating process and employ standard estimating terminology.
- Select and apply appropriate estimating techniques.
- Clarify the estimating request and scope of work to avoid miscommunication.
- Document an estimate in a professional manner, listing assumptions, accuracy factor, and confidence level.
- Cite five organizational building blocks important for better estimating.
Contact this provider
Procept Associates Ltd.
Since 1963, Procept (and its subsidiaries) have trained over 1 million people from over 17,000 organizations. We focus on developing competencies in project management, change management, agile management, leadership, business analysis, IT and data management, as well as soft skill...