Transparency Is Key

Ideally, every project would start with a clear and realistic cost estimate that can be monitored and updated from start to finish. Communication and transparency are always critical to a successful project, most especially in ongoing project cost discussions. Districts and designers can set the team up for success by creating a plan for programming and cost estimating at the outset with the goal of aligning expectations, managing uncertainty, and avoiding “scope creep.”

Cost estimates must be as realistic as possible to be useful planning tools. If cost estimates are accurate and are updated at each stage of the design, they can be invaluable in helping stakeholders visualize the “domino effect” impacts and trade-offs of each program space and support wise decisions throughout the process.