Estimating projects of any size can be a very detailed and cumbersome task. Adding to the pressure is the fact that nothing can affect the profit margin more than the initial estimate. Therefore, it is extremely important to be as accurate as possible when estimating costs for a project, and it all starts with understanding the full scope to ensure everything is accounted for.

A scope statement, typically found in the bid package, defines the project’s scope and describes the specific tasks, key stakeholders, milestones, deadlines and other information that is required to make the project successful.

Clearly defining and documenting the scope of a project helps your team account for all of the work that needs to be completed so you can accurately estimate costs and set a well thought-out project plan. It also enables your team to guard against ‘scope creep’ throughout the project lifecycle, allowing you to deliver against what you’ve promised to clients but also get paid for work outside of your agreed scope.

Defining the project scope should be the first step in your project estimating process.

Below I’ve outlined some tips to help you define and manage scope before you begin working on a new project.

The more you know up front, the better.

Oftentimes your client isn’t an expert in your field and won’t know what information you need in order to produce an accurate estimate, making it critical that you be proactive and ask questions.

If you’re working on a design-build project, lean on your expertise to drive the conversation and uncover exactly what the client is expecting from your services. Does the client also require new faucets, or additional landscaping? What are the technical specifications you need to deliver (electrical, security, audio/visual, etc.)? How will you measure success? Who’s contract is it to install the security wiring?

You should ask questions that will enable your team to understand the specific tasks that will need to be completed and when, but also help your client ensure that there are no gaps in the scope.

It is also very important for you to establish all client stakeholders and decision makers, and identify potential risks that will impact project delivery. Being proactive like this helps ensure a seamless process.

Keep reading this blog on Ontraccr.com

• 
•