Glossary of Technical Terms Used in Mechanical Engineering: Cost Estimating Relationship

Cost Estimating Relationship

Unlocking the Power of Relationships: Cost Estimating Relationships in Cost Estimation & Control

Cost estimation is a crucial part of any project, serving as the foundation for budgeting, resource allocation, and ultimately, project success. While numerous techniques exist for cost estimation, one powerful approach relies on the concept of Cost Estimating Relationships (CERs).

What are Cost Estimating Relationships (CERs)?

In essence, a CER is a mathematical formula that leverages a known relationship between a cost element (dependent variable) and an independent variable. This independent variable could be anything that influences the cost, such as:

  • Project size: Measured in square footage for construction, lines of code for software development, or number of units produced for manufacturing.
  • Complexity: Reflected in the number of features, design specifications, or technical challenges.
  • Material cost: Based on market prices or historical data.
  • Labor hours: Determined by the estimated time required to complete specific tasks.

The Power of Parametric Estimating

CERs fall under the umbrella of parametric estimating, a technique that utilizes historical data and statistical relationships to predict future costs. By establishing a clear relationship between independent and dependent variables, CERs offer several advantages:

  • Improved Accuracy: CERs leverage historical data and established patterns, leading to more accurate cost estimates compared to purely subjective assessments.
  • Faster and Efficient: CERs streamline the estimation process, reducing the need for extensive research and analysis.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: The reliance on quantitative relationships provides a more objective and transparent approach to cost estimation, enabling informed decision-making.

Creating and Applying CERs

Developing a CER requires careful consideration and analysis:

  1. Identify the Cost Element: Define the specific cost element you wish to estimate (e.g., labor cost, material cost, overhead).
  2. Choose an Independent Variable: Select a variable that demonstrably influences the cost element.
  3. Gather Historical Data: Collect relevant data from past projects, including cost data for the dependent variable and values for the independent variable.
  4. Establish the Relationship: Analyze the data to identify a clear relationship between the variables. This could be linear, exponential, or other suitable models.
  5. Develop the CER: Formulate a mathematical equation that expresses the relationship between the variables.
  6. Apply the CER: Use the developed CER to estimate the cost for new projects based on the estimated value of the independent variable.

Real-World Applications

CERs find extensive application across various industries, including:

  • Construction: Estimating the cost of building a structure based on its square footage.
  • Software Development: Predicting the development cost based on the number of lines of code.
  • Manufacturing: Estimating the production cost of a new product based on the number of units to be produced.

Challenges and Considerations

While CERs offer significant benefits, it's essential to acknowledge their limitations:

  • Data Accuracy and Completeness: The quality of the historical data used to develop the CER directly impacts its accuracy. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to biased estimates.
  • Project Specific Factors: CERs may not fully capture the unique aspects of individual projects, requiring adjustments for project-specific factors not reflected in the established relationships.
  • Regular Review and Updating: As project characteristics evolve and market conditions change, CERs should be reviewed and updated regularly to maintain their relevance and accuracy.

Conclusion

Cost Estimating Relationships (CERs) provide a powerful tool for cost estimation and control. By harnessing the power of data and established relationships, CERs empower project teams to make more informed decisions, improve budgeting accuracy, and ultimately, enhance project success.


Test Your Knowledge

Quiz on Cost Estimating Relationships (CERs)

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is a Cost Estimating Relationship (CER)? a) A mathematical formula that estimates project duration. b) A subjective assessment of project costs based on experience. c) A statistical technique that predicts project risks. d) A mathematical formula that links cost to an independent variable.

Answer

d) A mathematical formula that links cost to an independent variable.

2. Which of the following is NOT a common independent variable used in CERs? a) Project size b) Complexity c) Weather conditions d) Labor hours

Answer

c) Weather conditions

3. What is a key advantage of using CERs for cost estimation? a) They eliminate the need for historical data analysis. b) They are completely immune to project-specific factors. c) They provide more objective and data-driven cost estimates. d) They guarantee 100% accuracy in cost prediction.

Answer

c) They provide more objective and data-driven cost estimates.

4. Which of the following industries is NOT a common application of CERs? a) Construction b) Software Development c) Retail d) Manufacturing

Answer

c) Retail

5. What is a crucial factor to consider when applying CERs for cost estimation? a) The reputation of the project team b) The availability of free software tools c) The accuracy and completeness of historical data d) The personal preferences of the project manager

Answer

c) The accuracy and completeness of historical data

Exercise: Developing a CER

Scenario: You are managing a construction project where the cost of excavation is directly related to the volume of earth moved. You have the following data from previous projects:

| Project | Volume of Earth Moved (m3) | Excavation Cost ($) | |---|---|---| | A | 500 | 10,000 | | B | 750 | 15,000 | | C | 1000 | 20,000 |

Task:

  1. Identify the dependent and independent variables.
  2. Plot the data points on a graph.
  3. Determine the relationship between the variables (linear, exponential, etc.).
  4. Develop a CER equation that expresses the relationship.
  5. Estimate the excavation cost for a new project with a volume of 1200 m3.

Exercice Correction

1. **Dependent Variable:** Excavation Cost ($) 2. **Independent Variable:** Volume of Earth Moved (m3) 3. **Relationship:** The data points suggest a linear relationship. 4. **CER Equation:** * Calculate the slope (m): m = (change in cost) / (change in volume) = (20,000 - 10,000) / (1000 - 500) = 20 * Calculate the y-intercept (b) using one data point and the slope: 10,000 = 20 * 500 + b => b = 0 * CER Equation: Cost = 20 * Volume + 0 => **Cost = 20 * Volume** 5. **Estimated Excavation Cost:** * Cost = 20 * 1200 = **$24,000**


Books

  • Cost Estimating by A.C. Fisher (Classic text on cost estimation, covers various methods including CERs)
  • Cost Engineering: Principles and Practice by Norman A. B. Kling (A comprehensive resource on cost engineering, covers CERs and other techniques)
  • Parametric Cost Estimating: A Practical Guide by Alan D. Badiru (Specific focus on parametric cost estimating, including CER development and application)
  • Project Management Institute (PMI): A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) (Provides a general overview of cost estimation techniques, including CERs)

Articles

  • "Parametric Cost Estimating: A Comprehensive Overview" by S. P. Garg & A. K. Jaiswal (Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 2006)
  • "Cost Estimating Relationships for Construction Projects" by A. A. Moselhi & M. A. El-Rayes (Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 2001)
  • "Developing Cost Estimating Relationships for Software Development Projects" by J. Boehm (IEEE Software, 1981)

Online Resources

  • Cost Estimating Relationships (CERs) - AACE International (AACE International provides a wealth of information on cost estimating, including CERs)
  • Cost Estimating and Analysis - Project Management Institute (PMI provides resources on cost estimating, including CERs)
  • Parametric Cost Estimating - University of Maryland (This resource provides an overview of parametric cost estimating and its applications)

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