When estimators are more confident in the project timeline, they can be more confident in the cost. That’s why the best estimators incorporate the input and expertise of the people who will bring the project to life.

Rather than treating cost and schedule as separate functions, leading estimators think through the execution plan of a proposed project, making sure that the estimate schedule properly reflects the cost estimate, and also reflects accurate durations of activities. Providing a detailed estimate schedule gives executives and owners confidence that the estimator has properly planned the execution of a project, not just put numbers into a system. This is especially critical in large capital projects, where delays can quickly push overrun costs into the millions.

This approach transforms estimates into a shared tool that all stakeholders can trust, because it reflects both scope and strategy. By bringing feedback from field leadership, superintendents, and schedulers into the estimate, the costs and timelines become more realistic and more resilient—instilling confidence and buy-in across the extended team.